Based out of Naivasha, with KWS veterinarian Dr Titus Kaitho at the helm, the Rift Valley Unit serves wildlife in the Lake Naivasha – Elementaita – Nakuru Region and the Bogoria – Baringo Region. These areas are of great ecological significance, sporting all manner of life, including important populations of endangered species such as black and southern white rhino, mountain bongo, Rothschild’s giraffe, lion, cheetah, and leopard and it is also home to the western Kenya elephant population. The area is known for its diverse birdlife, including over 1.5 million flamingos who use Lake Nakuru and Lake Bogoria in their migratory route.
Like much of Kenya, wildlife in the Rift Valley is struggling due to the expanding human footprint. Bushmeat poaching, human-wildlife conflict, livestock encroachment, and competition over resources are on the rise. Our SWT/KWS Rift Valley Unit provides an important presence in the area, rapidly responding to wildlife cases and alleviating animal suffering.