KWS Hero's Day - 16th December 2005

Nineteen Kenya Wildlife service men were honored on Friday 16 December 2005, in a ceremony dubbed "Heroes Day". The ceremony was in honour of those who have died in the line of duty since the formation of Kenya Wildlife Service, 15 years ago. It was an emotional event at the KWS Headquarters for family members who came from far to witness their loved ones finally being remembered for dedicating their lives in protecting Kenya's National Heritage.

Most of the Heroes honored succumbed to gunshot wounds sustained from bandit attacks while on duty, while others were killed by the very wildlife they are entrusted to. Kenya is known world over for the great abundance of wildlife resources. Therefore, it was found necessary to officially recognize the contribution of these courageous men who risked their lives not only as a call of duty, but for service to the nation.

A special Guard of Honour was mounted in front of a monument that bears the names of the 19 fallen Service Heroes. Their kin also received certificates and tokens; a constant reminder of the value of their loved ones. For most kin and colleagues, it was a fresh memory of those departed as they fought back tears. "I remember that I had worked with the late Ole Sisina only for a day before his life was taken away prematurely, on an investigative mission", remarked a colleague.

Delivering his keynote address, Hon. Morris Dzoro who officiated the function praised KWS for taking the initiative to honour its staff who have lost their lives while protecting Kenya's invaluable National Heritage. He said that this should serve as a good example to those in service, "You now know that you are performing a very important duty to the nation", he told the Rangers present.

Honorable Dzoro added that a similar event would be held in future to remember those who lost their lives since conservation began in Kenya in 1945.>

KWS Director Julius Kipng'etich read an emotional prayer poem in praise of the departed colleagues, and comfort their loved ones. "This day is set aside exclusively for our heroes and their families, they deserve all due respect and honor", he said.

Former KWS directors Dr. Perez Olindo and Mr. Joe Kioko also attended the ceremony. Others included representatives from conservation NGOs, family members of the heroes, KWS staff and other invited guests