Cabinet approves creation of Nairobi National Park-Athi-Kapiti Wildlife Corridor

The Cabinet approved plans to implement the Nairobi National Park- Athi-Kapiti Wildlife Corridor.

This will among others further the nation’s environmental and conservation priorities and secure critical migratory routes and dispersal areas vital for the survival of Kenya’s wildlife.

The decision follows a presidential directive in July 2023, which called for urgent action to curb habitat fragmentation and escalating human- wildlife conflict around Nairobi National Park.

The project will reconnect the park to surrounding conservancies in Machakos and Kajiado counties, restoring vital migratory pathways for species such as zebra, wildebeeste, and gazelles.

Implementation will include land acquisition, wildlife-friendly fencing and the construction of overpasses and underpasses to enable safe animal crossings.

Portions of public land, including sections of the Export Processing Zone, will be surrendered to the Kenya Wildlife Service for conservation use.

The three-year project, beginning in the 2026/2027 financial year, will leverage partnerships with conservation agencies and innovative financing such as nature bonds and debt-for-nature swaps.

Cabinet affirmed that this initiative aligns with the Wildlife Corridors and Dispersal Areas Report (2016), Vision 2030, and Kenya’s commitment to sustainable biodiversity conservation.