The government has set aside Sh1.1 billion this year to compensate victims of the wild-life conflicts, according to Tourism Cabinet Secretary Peninah Malonza.

Presently there are 2,600 claims which have not been paid for.

Speaking at University of Embu during the World Tourism Day celebrations, Ms Malonza said the government is committed to ensure the victims are paid before the end of the year.

The CS lamented that it has been taking too long to compensate those affected and promised that the matter will be addressed.

She revealed that the government plans to establish an insurance scheme which will ensure timely compensation of people once they are hurt by wild animals or their property destroyed.

She stressed that the government has intensified the fencing of wildlife corridors to ensure no more wildlife-human conflicts.

She explained that the government was taking tourism as an economic activity and that is why it was investing heavily on it.

She said the sector was still on the recovery path, adding that the government was doing everything possible to ensure that it performs well.

The CS pledged to have Kenyan cultural dancing styles patented so that foreigners don’t continue “stealing” them.

Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire, the host said she was happy that such an event has been held in her region.

She said Embu tourism potential lies in sports, cultural, adventure and agriculture tourism.

She said Mwea National Game reserves lies in her region and underscores the need for domestic tourism.

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