Kenya launches forensic lab to boost war on wildlife crimes

The Kenyan government on Friday commissioned an ultra-modern wildlife forensic laboratory as part of a long-term strategy to combat poaching of iconic mammals.

Wildlife officials said Kenya became the second country in Africa after South Africa to launch such a lab that will enhance investigation and prosecution of wildlife crimes.

"Over the years, wildlife crime has become sophisticated and highly organized in nature hence the need to adopt technology to boost forensic investigations," Environment Cabinet Secretary Judi Wakhungu said during the launch.

The Kenyan government and donors spent 1 million U.S. dollars to establish the forensic lab that will assist in DNA analysis on wildlife products like trophies, meat, hides and skin.

Wakhungu said the government has focused on a holistic approach to combat wildlife crimes effectively.

"It is imperative that we enact stringent laws and adopt modern technology to enable the judiciary convict and mete appropriate sentences on individuals involved in wildlife crime," Wakhungu said.

Kenya is among African countries that have grappled with illegal trade in wildlife products. Wakhungu noted that besides poaching, habitat loss and rapid urbanization pose new threats to the country's wildlife heritage.

The application of DNA analysis will enhance fast and efficient prosecution of transnational criminals behind the slaughter of big mammals like elephants and rhinos.

The CS noted the launch of the lab marked a significant milestone in the implementation of wildlife conservation and management act, especially in tracing the origin of confiscated wildlife products and pursue offenders.

"In addition to the laboratory, we have implemented a raft of initiatives to ensure wildlife security. We have also partnered with bilateral allies and conservation groups to develop feasible wildlife law enforcement strategies," she said.

The CS also revealed Kenya is collaborating with South Africa to develop the rhinoceros DNA indexing system that will enhance monitoring of the mammals through establishment of a data bank.

Acting Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) Director General, William Kiprono said the lab will also boost animal health through improved diagnoses on disease causing pathogens.

"The wildlife forensic and genetics laboratory will inject new impetus in our efforts to reverse loss of species through illegal trade," he said. Endi