Kenya has officially launched a landmark 10-year plan to save the world’s rarest tortoise—the Pancake Tortoise—whose population is rapidly declining due to illegal trade, habitat destruction, and climate change.
The National Recovery and Conservation Action Plan (2025–2035) was unveiled today in Chiakariga, Tharaka-Nithi County, during World Endangered Species Day.
The ceremony was attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife, the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), the National Museums of Kenya (NMK), conservation groups, and community leaders from nine counties where the species is found.
The Pancake Tortoise (Malacochersus tornieri) is unique for its flat, flexible shell that allows it to hide in narrow rock crevices.
Kenya is home to more than 80% of the world’s remaining population, mainly found in arid and semi-arid areas of Kitui, Embu, Tharaka-Nithi, Tana River, Meru, Isiolo, Samburu, Laikipia, and Marsabit counties.
Despite its fascinating traits, the species faces extinction. It is listed as Critically Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), with threats including illegal capture for the exotic pet trade, habitat loss due to mining and unsustainable agriculture, and worsening drought conditions linked to climate change.
In response, KWS led a two-year process to develop a comprehensive action plan, involving key conservation players such as Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, Turtle Survival Alliance, NMK, and local communities.
“This species is not found in national parks or reserves—over 95 percent of Pancake Tortoise populations live outside protected areas,” said Prof. Erustus Kanga, Director-General of KWS.
“Their future rests squarely in the hands of the county governments and the communities who share their habitat. This plan empowers them to lead the charge.”
The 10-year strategy focuses on protecting and restoring the unique rocky outcrop habitats known as kopjes where the tortoises live. It also aims to train local “tortoise guardians” to lead community-based conservation efforts.
Another key area is the enforcement of laws to curb illegal wildlife trade, especially the capture and sale of Pancake Tortoises for the exotic pet market.
The plan further emphasizes the need for scientific research and population monitoring to better understand and track the species. Promoting eco-tourism is also a central goal, offering communities a sustainable source of income while encouraging wildlife conservation.
The strategy includes efforts to improve drought resilience in tortoise habitats, helping the species survive the growing impacts of climate change.
A key highlight of today’s event was the signing of a joint conservation agreement by the governors of the nine counties. The pact commits them to designate protected zones, fund public awareness campaigns, and create wildlife monitoring units specifically for the Pancake Tortoise.
The Chiakariga event also featured live viewing of the tortoise in its natural rocky habitat, educational exhibitions, traditional performances by the Tharaka community, and expert insights from herpetologists and ecologists.
KWS has encouraged the public and media to actively follow the progress of this historic conservation effort.
“This is a species we cannot afford to lose. It is not only a marvel of evolution but also a symbol of our dryland biodiversity,” said Prof. Kanga.
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