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  • Emergency Medicine Kenya Holds Two Day Symposium in Nairobi

    Emergency Medicine Kenya Holds Two Day Symposium in Nairobi

    Emergency Medicine Kenya Foundation (EMKF) on Thursday 2nd and Friday 3rd November 2023 held a two day symposium at Kenya School of Government (KSG) in Nairobi to impact on healthcare system in the country.

    The 4th edition, Emergency care symposium has garnered tremendous success as demonstrated by previous symposia and their impact on the emergency healthcare system in Kenya.

    To build on this momentum, this year’s symposium aims to equip frontline healthcare providers with the necessary emergency medical care knowledge and skills through our innovative and groundbreaking Emergency medical care skills market place.

    The target audience for this symposium is healthcare providers working in emergency departments and ambulance services.

    Symposium with healthcare providers,

    “Today, we have brought in emergency healthcare providers from across the country to come and sharpen and improve their skills and knowledge. Emergency healthcare fund has been approved by the government, and we are happy on that move so that all kenyans can access quality emergency healthcare.” Said Doctor Benjamin Wachira Executive Director Emergency Medicine Kenya Foundation.

    Health Advisor at the Office of The President Doctor Mwai Daniel offered that, ” We are trying to help Kenyans  by coming up with Afya Bora Mashinani Nyumbani part of Universal Healthcare model given the burden of healthcare. The issue of healthcare financing is critical since some families are left poor by huge hospital Bills, some are related to emergency cases such as accidents. Due to many lives lost, we saw the need for emergency healthcare fund and the desire to have the whole country benefit from the care. Emergency fundbis expected to provide evacuation of the person to nearby healthcare institution get the stabilization services 24 hours as the fund shoulders the cost. The Bill has already been signed into law by the President.”

    Kephas Achiro representing Turkana County observes that they have benefited alot from the programme training, Availability of the ambulance hence highlighting the need for emergency  care in Turkana  county.

    Doctor Matano Kibwana from Kilifi County also noted that, the Emergency Health system in Kilifi needed a new  unit and having a role in Emergency healthcare system and prehospital care where there is a toll number for all people to call.
    and further called upon different stakeholders to come on board as partners to help in matters of emergency services.

    EMKF is a non-governmental organization (NGO) committed to strengthening emergency healthcare systems in Kenya to save lives. It provides with the latest in emergency medical care practice to healthcare workers and the public through the Casualty App, training and the provision of freely available educational resources.

  • NHIF CEO Elijah Wachira Promises Transparency and Accountability Amidst Transition Challenges

    In his new role as Chief Executive Officer of the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF), Mr. Elijah Wachira has been entrusted with a crucial task – overseeing the fund’s transition to the National Social Authority (NSA) and ensuring positive changes in service delivery. During a session at the Parliament buildings, members of the Public Investments Committee on Social Services Administration and Agriculture, led by Chairperson Hon. Emanuel Wangwe (Navakholo), expressed concerns about missing documents necessary for recovering public funds lost due to fraud under Mr. Wachira’s predecessors.

    Responding to these concerns, Mr. Wachira assured the Committee that he has diligently worked to locate the required documents, addressing 99% of the requests, and even retrieving historical records. He emphasized his commitment to collaborating with the Committee to address audit queries and investigate misuse of public money, promising transparency and accountability.

    The Committee raised various issues from the Auditor-General’s report, including double payments and overpayments in special programs like Linda Mama, as highlighted by Hon. Peter Masara (Suna West). Additionally, Hon. Geoffrey Wandeto (Tetu) questioned the payment schedule from Amaco insurance firm concerning an NHIF vehicle involved in an accident. He opposed the release of the Ksh 4 million claim in installments, suggesting NHIF engage the Insurance Regulatory Authority for resolution.

    In response, the CEO requested the Committee’s patience to provide factual reports on all the matters raised, including fraudulent hospital claims and payments. He committed to presenting these reports during the next Committee session. This would also encompass responses related to irregular payments of acting allowances, failure to settle legal expenses, delayed surrender of temporary imprest, unsupported expenditures, budgetary control, performance, and long outstanding return-to-drawer cheques.

    “The payment schedule from this insurance firm should be rejected by NHIF, Chair. Any reputable insurance company should have the capacity to handle liabilities, and the Ksh 4 million claimed by NHIF should have been paid in full, not in installments as it is currently being done. NHIF should have engaged the Insurance Regulatory Authority to address this issue,” Hon. Wandeto emphasized.

    Mr. Wachira acknowledged the challenges faced during the transition, particularly affecting operations like officer promotions in acting positions, emphasizing that these issues might take longer to resolve due to the ongoing changes within the organization. He assured the Committee of his dedication to resolving these matters transparently and efficiently, working collaboratively to uphold the integrity of NHIF during this crucial period of transition.

  • Buy maize from farmers to cushion them from exploitation by middlemen; Speaker Wetang’ula urges government

    National Assembly Speaker Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Moses Wetang'ula
    National Assembly Speaker Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Moses Wetang’ula

    Buy maize from farmers to cushion them from exploitation by middlemen; Speaker Wetang’ula urges government National Assembly Speaker Hon. Moses Wetang’ula has urged the government to offer better prices for maize farmers through State buyouts to cushion them from exploitation by middlemen.

    Hon. Wetang’ula expressed fears that farmers risk falling prey to middlemen who were eyeing their bumper harvest through low pricing.

    “I have visited many maize-growing regions in the country and realised that farmers have made a bumper harvest,” said Hon. Wetang’ula.

    He added: “This is as a result of measures put in place by the government such as provision of subsidized fertilizer and favourable climate among others.”

    He noted that the National and County Governments should work closely to secure storage facilities for farmers and wade off fear of selling due to unpredictable markets.

    “Farmers have been selling their maize to middlemen because they lack storage facilities,” he added.

    Hon. Wetang’ula made the remarks at the Presbyterian Church of East Africa (PCEA) Elburgon parish in Molo Constituency where he was a chief guest during the church’s centenary celebrations.

    While recognizing the role the church played in the promotion of education, health and peace, the Speaker noted that it has been stable because it was built on a formidable foundation by its founders.

    He commended the head of the Parish Rev. Dr. Julius Guantai Mwamba for guiding the Parish to greater heights in both spiritual and development spheres.

    The Speaker expressed his gratitude to the residents of Molo constituency for choosing peace and cohesion after the region was worst hit by tribal clashes.

    “Molo is the face of Kenya because it is the home of nearly all tribes in Kenya. It is good that leaders and residents have chosen peace after suffering the pain of tribal clashes,” he added.

    While responding to pleas by leaders to intervene and have tribal clash victims living in slums get decent houses, the Speaker noted that the affordable housing programme would address the challenges rolled out by H.E President Dr William Ruto.

    Molo MP Hon. Kimani Kuria accompanied by Speaker Moses Wetang'ula and other members of parliament in Molo, Nakuru
    Molo MP Hon. Kimani Kuria accompanied by Speaker Moses Wetang’ula and other members of parliament in Molo, Nakuru

    Area MP Hon. Kimani Kuria while responding to the matter noted that 5,000 units will be constructed under the affordable housing project noting that those displaced by clashes will be given priority.

    Hon Kimani who is the Chairperson of the Parliamentary Committee on Finance blamed the deteriorating exchange rates for hoarding of dollars by banks.

    He noted that banks were hoarding dollars to make a kill on foreign exchange and asked the banks to be patriotic and save Kenyans from suffering.

    “When other financial institutions are making losses due to deteriorating exchange rates, commercial banks are making abnormal profits,” he claimed.

    Other MPs who accompanied the Speaker included, Hon. Jane Kihara, Hon. Jane Kagiri, Hon. Martin Papela, Hon. Githua wa Mashukuru, Hon. Joseph Makilap, Hon. Joseph Kamau Munyoro and Hon. Ken Aramat.

  • Speaker Wetang’ula appreciates the Gema for standing with President Ruto

    National Assembly Speaker Dr. Moses Wetang’ula expressed his heartfelt appreciation to the people of the Mt Kenya region for their unwavering support for the Kenya Kwanza team. He fondly recalled his campaigns alongside DP Gachagua in Central Kenya, highlighting the strong political bonds he shares with the Gema community. These ties trace back to the days of President Mwai Kibaki and the pivotal dialogues that fostered collaboration between Raila Odinga and President Kibaki.

    “I am deeply moved by the support I have received from the Gema community, and I wish to assure you all that my commitment to this friendship is steadfast,” affirmed the Speaker.

    Dr. Wetang’ula expressed his eagerness to strengthen his connection with the Gema community, underscoring his willingness to collaborate and stand behind President Ruto. He urged fellow leaders to prioritize development over divisive politics, commending the unity exhibited by the Nyandarua and Central Kenya regions.

    Various prominent leaders, including Nyandarua Governor Kiarie Badilisha, Nyandarua MP George Gachagua, and other Members of Parliament, expressed their wholehearted support for Speaker Wetangula. They lauded his efforts in fostering unity and driving developmental initiatives.

    Bungoma Senator Wafula Wakori shifted the focus from shareholding debates, stressing the importance of investing in the future and consolidating resources in Western Kenya. Several leaders voiced their admiration for Speaker Wetangula, recognizing his potential as a unifying force in Kenya’s complex political landscape.

    Nyandarua Woman Representative Faith Gitau passionately backed Speaker Wetangula and defended President Ruto’s foreign trips. She encouraged fellow Kenyans to contribute through taxes, complementing the achievements resulting from these diplomatic endeavors.

    MP Gachagua emphasized the robust alliance between DP Gachagua and Speaker Wetangula in support of President Ruto, solidifying their position as a powerful political force in the nation.

  • Konza Technopolis partners with Health Ministry to launch new Medical Solution – tibERbu

    Konza Technopolis partners with Health Ministry to launch new Medical Solution – tibERbu

    Konza Technopolis and the Ministry of Health have today unveiled a new medical system designed to unify medical records in public hospitals across the country.

    Known as tibERbu, the system is also expected to provide a single point of information for doctors and nurses to access patient digital records during hospital visits, thus saving time and enhancing medical diagnosis.

    tibERbu,  a product of the Konza Technopolis Innovation ecosystem, was showcased for the first time to members of the public in Kericho during the Health Day in the week leading up Mashujaa celebrations.

    Lucas Omollo, Konza Technopolis Development Authority Manager, ICT & Smart City Facilities said that tibERbu will revolutionize the medical sector with its two components comprising Primary Care Network (PCN) and Electronic Medical Record (EMR), which have been successfully rolled out to various health centres across the country.

    “tibERbu covers various service points in the hospital including Registration, Triage, Out-Patient Department (OPD), In-Patient Department (IPD), Specialist Clinics and other support services like billing, inventory. It enables doctors retrieve various reports from the system for efficient clinical decision making among others when running hospitals and managing patients,” he said.

    Mr. Omollo added that the new development was in line with the Life Science strategic focus for Konza Technopolis that has been set to provide an enabling environment for scientific breakthroughs and innovations in bioscience and the health industry, with the goal to position Kenya as a leader in life Science in Africa.

    “Our aim is to collaborate for Better Health through appropriate partnerships with key stakeholders in achieving universal healthcare goals hence positively impacting the local community by improving local healthcare access and quality, Omollo added.

    Outlining the import of the medical system, Health Ministry Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha explained that it had been locally developed in line with the Kenya National E-Health Strategy which is anchored on the achievement of Vision 2030.

    “Our overall goal in health is to have equitable and affordable healthcare at the highest achievable standard to Kenyans. The implementation of this novel digital health system is informed by the strategies and results emanating from various policies including the Kenya E-Health Policy 2016-2030, health sector strategic plans, the e-Government as well as Shared Services Strategies rolled out through the e-Government Directorate and the ICT Board respectively,” said Ms Nakhumicha.

    She noted that tibERbu is suitable for use by Sub- County and county Human Resources for Health (HRH) (including Health Records Information Officers (HRIOs), Medical Superintendents, Doctors, Nurses, Clinical Officers, Pharmacists, Radiologists, Lab technicians), County staff ICT officers, records officers, cashiers, accountants, NGOs working in the health industry and across the Ministry of Health offices.

    In order to protect patient data, she explained that the system has been designed with strict authentication. “Access to the system is based on user access rights. One must have a username and password to access the system. Users of the system have different privileges based on their roles in the system,” she said.

  • The Power of Purpose

    The Power of Purpose

    Tini Sevak, Vice President, Audiences & Data, CNN International Commercial

    The word purpose is one that fascinates me. Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “the reason for which something is done or for which something exists”. Taking this literal definition, we can clearly say that purpose is existential both for individuals – it’s what makes us get out of bed, what makes us tick, it’s our why – but is also more important for organisations now than ever before. That’s because the rapid shifts in technology, culture, society and behaviour are driving a rise of new attitudes towards how people are deciding which organisations and brands they work for and buy from.

    Companies today need to have a purpose that goes beyond profit and places value and importance on building relationships to be a brand that people can connect with. Getting this connection right improves business performance, reduces churn, and more importantly creates value and trust with customers.

    The data proves this, a study published by the Harvard Business Review found that companies with a clearly articulated purpose outperformed those organisations that didn’t develop their purpose. Specifically, 52% of purpose-driven companies experienced in excess of 10% growth compared to 42% of non-purpose-driven companies. They also experienced greater global expansion, more product launches, and more successful transformational efforts.

    The reason for this is that “transaction businesses” are largely a thing of the past, and relational, purpose-driven businesses are the way of the future. At these organisations, employees are more empowered and motivated, and the resultant innovation and performance fuels even further customer engagement and loyalty.

    As a news powerhouse used as a global point of reference, CNN also has a clear purpose. In line with my own admiration for the work that my editorial colleagues do day in day out, the role of international news is, according to a recent study by Toluna, viewed by 73% of global news consumers as being more important today than ever before. In addition, international news is seen as being reliable, trustworthy, providing high-quality journalism and in-depth analysis.

    This role that CNN plays in the world, based on 43 years of journalism, not only gives us purpose, but also provides a platform and environment to help brands articulate their purpose to global audiences. At the centre is aligning with audience expectation and sentiment around their purpose. When we conducted a study into attitudes amongst the CNN audience, we found that, after inflation, climate change is the second topic that our audiences are most concerned about in 2023. This concern is impacting their behaviour, both in their personal and professional lives. 75 per cent of our audience agree that ‘responsible’ sustainable financing is important in their company’s investment decisions, and around two-thirds work in companies that are transitioning to alternative fuels and energies and have signed up for net zero emission goals.

    The need for brands to be more purpose driven and responsible is especially important to the Gen Z audiences who have a very different set of behaviours and expectation from brands. This is an audience segment that value brand authenticity and strive to be socially and environmentally responsible. They are more cautious of what they buy, who they buy from and the effect their actions have on the environment. The CNN Gen Z audience firmly believe that brands need to take a stance on causes of our time.

    Therefore, we know that brands will be disproportionately positioned to connect with our audience if they are taking meaningful action around sustainability and are able to articulate this message in an authentic way.

    The word “meaningful” is absolutely key here – brands and nations should only communicate around sustainability issues if it’s true to their brand identity and purpose. Your message needs to be borne out in your actions. Otherwise, audiences will quite rightly reject any messages as “greenwashing” leading to a negative reaction.

    Meaningful is also a word used frequently when describing the upcoming COP28 in the UAE. From the very announcement, this has been billed as the most important COP since Paris in 2015. In recent months, further evidence of the climate emergency and its far-reaching effects has been in force all across the world. Even many sceptics are sitting up and taking notice as temperatures soar, wildfires spread, sea levels rise and glaciers melt exacerbating issues from food security to migration.

    If ever there was a time for companies to look to the future, embrace and clearly define their purpose, particularly around the issue of sustainability and the future of our planet, the time is now. The world will be looking closely at not just the words, but the actions, at COP28, presenting a unique moment for brands to show they have the agency to be part of a more optimistic purpose-driven future.

  • Prepare for Spectacular Delights: Gordons Fun Fair Dazzles Mombasa City

    Prepare for Spectacular Delights: Gordons Fun Fair Dazzles Mombasa City

    Kenya Breweries Limited (KBL), through its brand Gordon’s TM, will be treating consumers to an electrifying fourth edition of the sensational “Gordons Fun Fair,” set to rock the vibrant shores of Mombasa’s Flamingo Beach Resort on Saturday, October 23, 2023.

    This unforgettable spectacle will showcase the creÌme de la creÌme of Africa’s musical luminaries, including the illustrious BET award-winner, ShaSha, from Zimbabwe. And that’s not all, brace yourselves for the unrivalled harmonies of Africa’s Premium Brand, Alternate Sound, all the way from Nigeria!

    Kenya’s own sonic champions are taking the stage too. With the likes of Masauti, DJ Grauchi, Charisma, DJ Pierra, DJ Euggy, and Veejay Chris, expect your auditory senses to be taken on a rollercoaster ride of beats and melodies.

    Your hosts for the night, the magnetic MC duo BV Accurate and the charismatic Wanjira are sure to keep the energy at an all-time high.

    But the excitement doesn’t end there! Secure your passage to this exhilarating event via the EABL’s state-of-the-art commerce platform, thebar.ke, or at the nearest Ticket Sasa outlets as well as convenient/ liquor stores in Mombasa.

    Tickets are available at the EABL e-commerce platform thebar.ke. Purchase any Gordons London Dry Gin 750ML OR Gordons Premium Pink 700ML and get 2 Regular Tickets OR Purchase 350ml OR Gordon’s Cans 6 pack and get 1 Regular Ticket or Purchase any Gordon’s London Dry Gin 1L OR Gordon’s Premium Pink 1L and get 1 VIP Ticket

    Immerse yourself in the carnival of street fashion pop-ups, offering tantalizing merchandise that will transform your style game. Expect memories that’ll last a lifetime with such epic performances on the horizon. Just remember, magic happens when you drink responsibly.

  • Kenyan Government Signs MoU with Huawei to Promote Digital Transformation

    Kenyan Government Signs MoU with Huawei to Promote Digital Transformation

    The Kenya Government has entered into an agreement with Huawei Technologies that will see the two parties collaborate on the development of the country’s ICT infrastructure, promote the digitization of various sectors of the country, such as transportation, e-government, education, digital energy among others. Additionally, the two parties agreed to continue to cultivate digital skills and knowledge sharing to enable Kenya youth to be job ready.

    Speaking when he visited Huawei’s Beijing Executive Briefing Center (EBC), Kenya’s President William Ruto stated that, “We recognise the urgent need to develop a green, digital and creative economy in Kenya. In this regard, we therefore regard Huawei as a reliable partner of Kenya in terms of improving digital infrastructure, with its pioneering strength in ICT technologies driven by its heavy R&D investment. We look forward to strengthening the partnership for more positive outcomes of ICT infrastructure construction and industrial digitalization.”

    Chairman of Huawei’s Board of Directors, Mr. Liang Hua said Huawei is ready to work more closely with the Kenyan government to grow the digital and creative economy in the country.

    “Huawei hopes to facilitate Kenya’s development in fields like the ICT connectivity infrastructure, national data center and solar power generation. We will continue to dedicate ourselves to improving young Kenyans’ digital skills and literacy. Huawei values openness, collaboration and win-win results. We will enhance investment in the R&D of cutting-edge technologies across connectivity, computing and digital power. Our team will work with local customers and partners to make greater contributions to the digital economy in Kenya.”

    Since starting operations in Kenya in 2003, Huawei has been dedicated to boosting ICT infrastructure, providing digital services, and promoting digital skills in the country. The global ICT leader supported the construction of computing power infrastructure including National Optical Fiber Backbone Infrastructure (NOFBI) and the KONZA National Data Center. Huawei also supported Safaricom in launching the first 5G network in East Africa in 2021. Besides, Huawei has long been a firm supporter of Kenya’s inclusive development and digital skills agenda, contributing to Kenya’s inclusive finance innovations such as the M-PESA and the Hustler-fund, and has provided digital skills training to about 10,000 Kenyan people in the past year.

  • Stanbic Bank Kenya Empowering Education Through Innovation

    Stanbic Bank Kenya Empowering Education Through Innovation

    Education is the cornerstone of progress and development in any society. In Kenya, access to quality education is a fundamental right and a key driver of socio-economic growth in accordance with UN Article 26 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

    Stanbic Bank Kenya recognises this importance and has taken substantial steps to empower educational institutions in the region. With a focus on innovation and technology, the bank is transforming the education sector, ensuring that it can keep up with the growing demands of the future.

    In a groundbreaking move, Stanbic Bank Kenya has committed to empowering educational institutions with the financial support needed for automated school fees collections, reconciliations and payments, infrastructure, networks, innovation, and technology. This commitment extends to primary, secondary, university, and tertiary education institutions and covers various aspects, including infrastructure upgrades, laptop programs, and asset financing. The bank is dedicated to helping educational institutions realize their full potential, enabling them to provide a higher quality of education in Kenya and across East Africa.

    “The bank leverages community value chains to unlock growth, capital, and investment. Whether financing teachers’ assets or supporting supply chain financing for schools, Stanbic Bank’s model fosters partnerships that yield substantial opportunities,” said Florence Wanja, Executive & Head of Business & Commercial Clients at Stanbic Bank Kenya during a breakfast meeting on Empowering Education through EduTech and Innovation held in Nairobi on 13th October 2023.

    The need for financial support in the education sector in Kenya and East Africa is more urgent than ever. With the continent’s population projected to exceed 1.7 billion by 2050, there is a pressing need to expand the reach and capacity of the education sector. While governments have traditionally invested in education, the gaps in funding persist. Household expenditures on education are rising, and by 2026, the education industry is expected to reach staggering figures, with Kenya leading the way.

    Stanbic Bank’s approach to supporting education is holistic. The bank leverages dedicated relationship managers to simplify complex banking procedures for educational institutions, allowing them to concentrate on their core mission of teaching and nurturing skills. Moreover, the bank’s extensive network facilitates partnerships with reliable suppliers, connecting educational projects with cost-effective infrastructure, hardware, and technology providers.

    One of the most remarkable aspects of Stanbic Bank’s approach is its commitment to technology and innovation in education. The bank recognizes that technology has the potential to revolutionize the way education is delivered. Through its Financial Fitness Academy, Stanbic Bank has developed financial literacy programs for students and young adults, preparing them for life beyond school.

    Furthermore, Stanbic Bank has partnered with BCK Kenya Limited, providing discounted rates on devices and free after-sales support to Stanbic Education Institutions clients who procure equipment through this partnership.

    The bank also partners with educational institutions to support innovation in teaching and learning. It sponsors hackathons and other initiatives to create platforms where learners can showcase their tech-related skills. Additionally, the bank provides job opportunities and internships through its Graduate Trainee program, attracting and retaining incredible talents.

    Customised Solutions for Educational Institutions

    Stanbic Bank offers tailor-made solutions to meet the specific needs of educational institutions. These solutions include:

    1. Automated Fees Collections, Reconciliation  and Payments: Streamlined digital onboarding processes empower institutions to manage their finances in real-time, offering access to a broader range of services and new opportunities.
    2. Asset Financing: This covers a wide range of assets, including laptops, school buses, laboratory equipment, power solutions and land.
    3. Personal Banking: Stanbic Bank provides financial services for staff, parents, and teachers within educational institutions.
    4. Supplier Financing: The bank facilitates partnerships with reliable suppliers, ensuring cost-effective infrastructure, hardware, and technology.

    Stanbic Bank Kenya’s vision extends beyond mere financial transactions. It is a commitment to nurturing future generations, enhancing the quality of education, and unlocking Africa’s boundless potential. As their tagline proudly states, “Kenya is our home, and we drive her growth,” they are indeed driving growth not only in Kenya but also within educational institutions, benefiting students, parents, teachers, and suppliers. Stanbic Bank’s dedication to innovation and technology in education is a shining example of how financial institutions can be powerful catalysts for positive change.

  • New global benchmark encourages tourists to become responsible wildlife watchers

    New global benchmark encourages tourists to become responsible wildlife watchers

    World Animal Protection and World Cetacean Alliance have today launched a new global programme, working with a coalition of responsible travel businesses and wildlife charities, which they hope will change the way people travel to see wildlife forever.

    Called ‘Wildlife Heritage Areas’ the programme will provide outstanding and responsible wildlife tourism experiences. Wildlife Heritage Areas has been developed to meet an expanding need from tourists to see wildlife in the wild, as the ethics of wild animals in zoos and aquariums increasingly comes under scrutiny. Now, travellers will be able to discover destinations where local communities care for and protect the wildlife in their environment and support them through incredible tourism experiences that are sustainable in the long-term.

    Angela Maldonado, founder of Entropika, a conservation NGO and part of the Wildlife Heritage Network, comments: “The Amazon Night Monkey Heritage Area covers 640 km2 in Vista Alegre on the Colombian-Peruvian border. It offers low-impact nature activities, such as jungle hikes, wildlife watching tourism and experiential tourism, which are all guided by knowledgeable locals. These local stewards of the forest are critically important in helping to alleviate outside pressure that the monkeys face from a range of issues including trafficking for biomedical research and deforestation.”

    Another example is The Apennines Marsican Bear Heritage Area in Italy, which covers 1100 km2 and focuses on the critically endangered Marsican brown bear, which is a central part of local history and culture, inspiring wildlife watchers to focus on the vibrant and dynamic landscape elements.

    Dylan Walker, Wildlife Heritage Areas, said: “We believe Wildlife Heritage Areas will benefit both the local community and wildlife in responsible wildlife watching destinations. By working in partnership with locals, charitable and responsible tourism experts, we can showcase how culture, responsible tourism, and ideas for coexistence can create a better future for places, nature, and people.”

     

    The travel industry currently has no means of identifying destinations meeting high standards of responsible wildlife watching. The Wildlife Heritage Area programme changes this.

    Nick Stewart, Wildlife Campaign Director – World Animal Protection, said: “We’re delighted to have co-founded Wildlife Heritage Areas as a solution to exploitative wildlife tourism. We invite travel companies around the world to drop the elephant rides, ditch the dolphin shows and any of the other demeaning wildlife entertainment experiences out there and instead, get behind truly responsible wildlife tourism that meets the needs of local communities, visitors and of course wild animal welfare.”

    In addition, Wildlife Heritage Areas will create new opportunities for visitors to engage with the unique culture, heritage and biodiversity that underpins each local community’s wildlife offering. This will help to generate pride and income for the responsible protection of wildlife and habitats.

    Harry Eckman, CEO, World Cetacean Alliance, said: “Wildlife Heritage Areas are an exciting and perfect evolution of the WCA’s successful Whale Heritage Area program. Wildlife Heritage Areas will provide the communities with a unique opportunity to showcase and celebrate their heritage and connection to amazing species and environments and will provide tourists with an incredible opportunity to experience wildlife in the most inspiring ways.”

    Current Wildlife Heritage Areas

    • Plettenberg Bay Whale Heritage Area (designated), South Africa
    • Algoa Bay Whale Heritage Area (designated), South Africa
    • Amazon Night Monkey Heritage Area (candidate), Peru/Colombia
    • Amazon Uakari Heritage Area (candidate), Brazil
    • Apennines Marsican Bear Heritage Area (candidate), Italy
    • Whitsundays Whale Heritage Area (Candidate) Australia
    • Santa Barbara Channel Whale Heritage Area (new designation), USA
    • Madeira Whale Heritage Area (new designation), Portugal

    Candidate means the applicant has reached level 2 of 3 of the designation process.

    Designated means the applicant has reached level 3 of 3 of the designation process.

    New designation means that the application has newly reached level 3 of the application process.