Giraffes Suffer as Private Ranches Shut Down Migratory Corridors

A crisis is quietly unfolding in Central Kajiado, threatening one of Africa's most iconic animals: the Maasai giraffe. As human activities continue to encroach on their habitat, these gentle giants are increasingly at risk. Without urgent action, we may soon lose these majestic creatures from the region.

In the past decade, the open landscapes of Central Kajiado have been transformed by the rapid rise of private ranch fences. While these fences were not intended to harm wildlife, they are blocking crucial migratory routes, especially along the Namanga Highway. These routes are vital for giraffes to move freely in search of food, water, and safety. Tragically, the fences have now become death traps.

The Toll on Giraffes

"Over the past year, 20 giraffes have died after being trapped by these barriers," says John Kisimir, Co-Founder of RAMAT Wildlife Society.

Currently, around 30 giraffes are trapped inside fences in Mailua Location, cut off from their herds, and unable to reach better pastures. Isolated from their social groups, these giraffes face increased risks of starvation, injury, and sometimes go months without access to water.

What makes this even more heartbreaking is that the Maasai communities of Central Kajiado have long coexisted with wildlife. With support from the RAMAT Wildlife Society, some communities have set up conservancies to protect both their land and the animals that live there. However, their efforts face significant challenges, particularly a lack of adequate support and technical resources.

Urgent Action Needed

Immediate action is needed. The key to solving this crisis is engaging private landowners in a productive dialogue. They should be encouraged and incentivized to create wildlife corridors—open spaces where giraffes and other animals can move freely between their habitats.

The Maasai giraffe is not just another animal; it represents the wild heritage of the Maasai people. Losing it due to man-made barriers would be a tragedy. Efforts to ensure their survival must start now.