Prince William visits President Kenyatta, promises to support conservation efforts

President Uhuru Kenyatta on Thursday held talks with the Duke of Cambridge, Prince William, who paid him a courtesy call at State House, Nairobi.

President Kenyatta and the Duke discussed cooperation and the close ties between Kenya and the UK. Special consideration was given to conservation – an issue that has been close to Prince William’s heart.

The President highlighted Kenya’s progress in combating poaching, disclosing that next month he will preside over the torching of 120 tonnes of ivory and 1.5 tonnes of rhino horn.

“We are determined to conserve our wildlife for posterity and welcome all the support we can get in this endeavour,” President Kenyatta said.

He said the destruction of the wildlife trophies will send a strong message that trade in illegal wildlife trophies is not tolerated.

The Head of State said Kenya is keen on working closely with its neighbours and development partners in wildlife conservation.

Kenyatta expressed the need to involve local communities in the conservation efforts, adding that the move will benefit people and help reduce human-wildlife conflict.

The Duke assured President Kenyatta of his support to the Government’s efforts to conserve wildlife.

“If there is anything I can do to raise the profile in your efforts to conserve wildlife I will do it,” the Duke said.

The Duke, who arrived in the country on a private visit this morning, is the President of United For Wildlife – an alliance between seven of the world’s most influential conservation organisations.

The Duke was accompanied by the Cabinet Secretary for Environment and Natural Resources, Prof. Judi Wakhungu.