The world is losing its biodiversity at an alarming rate. The rate of species extinction is currently higher than it has ever been before. For instance, in Kenya, wildlife has declined at an average rate of 68% since 1977. Protected and conserved areas comprise a part of the global efforts to manage and conserve biodiversity. Rangers, both government-employed and conservancy rangers, comprise the frontline staff in the management and protection of biodiversity.
Rangers play various roles, including security, policing, intelligence gathering, biodiversity data gathering, community relationship building, and conflict management. Conservancy rangers in Kenya face many challenges, including poor remuneration, limited professional capacities, harsh working conditions, and inadequate recognition and appreciation by their employers and the Government. This diversity of roles requires a mix of specialized skills, which most conservancy rangers do not have.
If we establish AWCRK as an effective, efficient, and sustainable ranger association, then we will be able to promote and effectively advocate for well-trained, equipped, networked, and motivated conservancy rangers. If the conservancies train, equip, and support the networking of their rangers, then the rangers will develop the necessary skills, attitudes, and motivations they need to play their critical role as frontline workers in managing and protecting biodiversity in Kenya. These efforts will significantly contribute to Kenya's sustainable development agenda as stipulated in the Constitution 2010, Vision 2030, and globally to the Convention of Biological Diversity, Aichi Biodiversity Targets, the 2019 Chitwan Declaration, and the United Nation's Sustainable Development Goals No. 14 and No. 15.