A black rhino at Nairobi National Park. Animal numbers had increased in
Bogoria and Ruma National Park, where black rhinos had almost been wiped
out due to Tsetse flies, said Ms Olet. PHOTO | KWS |
A parastatal charged with eradication of tsetse flies has asked for increased funding.
Kenya
Tsetse and Trypanosomiasis Eradication Council (Kenttec) chief
executive Pamela Olet said the Sh400 million allocated to the agency
last year was not enough to eradicate the insect since it had spread to
many parts of the country.
Speaking at Mwea Game
Reserve during a field visit to assess the impact of tsetse eradication
in Mbeere South in Embu county, Dr Olet said her organisation intends to
mount a systematic campaign to ensure success in the war against the
insect.
She said tsetse flies usually move to
neighbouring counties, noting that if the war against the bug is not
extended beyond borders, it would come a cropper.
Dr
Olet said the tsetse fly menace had cost the economy billions of
shillings especially in tourism, since it is prevalent in game reserves
and national parks, affecting the population of wild animals.
RHINOS AFFECTED
RHINOS AFFECTED
She
said animal numbers had increased in Bogoria and Ruma National Park,
where black rhinos had almost been wiped out due to the fly.
“The
Sh400 million can’t even be enough for the Meru National Park. We
should have a systematic campaign because if you leave the neighbouring
area, the insects will come back. We have seen great success in various
parts of the country,” said Dr Olet.
Livestock Principal Secretary Fred Sigor said more than 138 square kilometres of land in Kenya is infested with the flies.
Prof Sigor said the ministry would soon launch tsetse eradication campaign in Galana Ranch to help boost livestock production.
Kenttec
Chairman Gideon Nzau said cash constraints had affected service
delivery and had delayed hiring of zoologists and other staff.
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