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Kenya sign MOU with U.S. to strengthen anti-poaching efforts

Xinhua, January 26, 2016 Adjust font size:

The Kenyan ministry of environment and natural resources on Monday signed a memorandum of understanding with the U.S. government to boost the war against wildlife crimes in the East African nation.

Visiting U.S. Secretary of the Interior, Sally Jewell and Kenyan Cabinet Secretary for Environment and Natural Resources, Professor Judi Wakhungu witnessed the signing of the new agreement to strengthen anti-poaching efforts in the country.

During her opening remarks, Jewell said the U.S. government will provide technical capacity to help Kenya deal with the menace of poaching that threatens the survival of iconic species like elephants and rhinos.

"The new memorandum of understanding will facilitate engagement between our two governments to combat wildlife crimes more effectively," Jewell said.

She revealed the new bilateral agreement will focus on technical support, training and provision of funds to help improve surveillance at the port of Mombasa.

The U.S., China and EU member states have deepened their cooperation with Kenya in the area of wildlife protection.

Jewell disclosed that President Barrack Obama recently issued an executive order that directed federal agencies to enhance their collaboration with African countries affected by poaching.

"We have a clear mandate to address the scourge of wildlife crimes from source, transit and demand countries. We look forward to deepen collaboration with the Kenyan government to combat wildlife trafficking that threatens to wipe out iconic species," said Jewell.

Her official visit to Gabon, Kenya and South Africa is aimed at re-affirming the United States commitment towards elimination of wildlife crimes in Africa.

The Kenyan government has partnered with bilateral allies to strengthen the fight against poaching through use of modern technology and capacity building for wildlife rangers.

Wakhungu noted that improved surveillance, community engagement and deterrent laws have contributed to a reduction in wildlife crimes in Kenya.

"Kenya with support from our partners has taken significant steps to tackle the poaching menace. We consider wildlife trafficking a critical conservation issue and have supported regional and global efforts to eradicate this vice," Wakhungu said. Enditem