Compensation bill stands at Ksh I billion, our budget is 277 million- admits Balala

Tourism CS Najib Balala photo (File)

By Kombe Mwarandu

The Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife has reiterated its commitment to compensate Kenyans affected by wildlife but admits underfunding by government.

“Some are taking advantage of this. We have a team that will look into the whole issue and only genuine people will receive compensation” Balala warned

Speaking to the media in Mombasa on Wednesday Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Najib Balala however said the human wildlife conflict bill stands at Kshs 1billion while the ministry is operating on a budget of Ksh 277 billion.

“I want to be understood here, wildlife do not belong to the CS. It belongs to all of us as Kenyans. Kenyans must be responsible” the CS noted

He says the ministry has been allocated a total of 277 million adding that it is a challenge to the entire process.

The ministry has however cautioned Kenyans against taking advantage of the initiative.

The CS says there is a need to address the issue of human wildlife conflict compensation.

“The bill stands at 1 billion while our budget is 277 million. This is where the challenge is. There is a need for the ministry to carry out compensation to the genuinely affected”

On the issue of travel ban issued by the United States of America following the terrorist attacks recently, the tourism boss accused foreign embassies on claims of blowing up proportions.

Balala further appealed to the embassies to collaborate with the ministry in a bid to address such challenges.

“Terrorism is an international issue. I appeal to embassies to work together with the ministry. It is no use blowing out figures. This has a negative effect on our economy as a country” he said

The tourism ministry boss noted that such travel advisories not only affect the tourism sector economy at large.

He urged Coast counties to proactively address challenges facing tourism in the region.

Mr Balala lauded efforts by the Coast counties in dealing with challenges emanating from the tourism sector.

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