Additional Context: These interventions were part of a $7.8 million USAID grant to the International Fund for Animal Welfare, or IFAW, set to continue through 2027 but terminated in the middle of implementation. The project aimed to transform Kenya's Amboseli and Tsavo ecosystems through strengthened biodiversity protection services and natural resource governance. Canceled infrastructure developments include the construction of housing for rangers in Shirango Conservancy and 300 of the planned 730 kilometers of road improvement. A land survey was also cancelled.

Devex Researcher Note: Tourism currently accounts for 90% of revenue for Kenya's national parks and associated biodiversity protection efforts — infrastructure expansions would have strengthened investments and increased the revenue stream, a consideration which has become even more relevant as Kenya strives to become more independent from foreign governmental donors. While infrastructure improvement could also increase poaching risk, the U.S.-supported project had integrated construction with its support for anti-poaching efforts by training and direct assistance to 133 rangers. This has also been discontinued. Rangers are considered "frontline" respondents of conservation. Vulnerable to attacks by armed groups, as well as insufficient food, shelter, and protection, IFAW considers ranger welfare interventions to be 'make or break' in the resilience of conservation to outside threats.

Source: International Fund for Animal Welfare