Our History
VISION
A unified and influential voice in Kenya, championing a future where people, nature, and the economy thrive sustainably.
MISSION
To advocate for sustainable ecosystems where flora, fauna, and livelihoods flourish, by empowering members to implement impactful conservation programs across Kenya.
MANDATE
Committed to safeguarding Kenya's biodiversity and habitats while promoting sustainable development and inclusive participation through robust advocacy, strategic partnerships, and community-driven initiatives. We aim to influence policy, engage stakeholders—including local communities, the private sector, and government bodies—and drive effective environmental stewardship that prioritizes people, biodiversity, and climate resilience. We ensure that every decision reflects transparency, accountability, and the collective welfare of current and future generations.
Core Values
- + Embracing diversity through focused and effective collaboration (Teamwork and Collaboration).
- + partnership and engagement (Diversity).
- + Upholding integrity, transparency and accountability (Transparency and good governance).
- + Pursue innovative, creative initiatives and interventions (sustainable Innovations).
- + Recognition of professionalism and technical expertise among the members (respect for others)
Background
Imagine a time when Kenya’s majestic wildlife faced an uncertain future. In the early 2010s, amid shrinking habitats and rampant poaching, a wave of change was on the horizon. The Wildlife Conservation and Management Act of 2013 signaled a new era, spotlighting the deep challenges at hand—from large-scale government infrastructure projects and a soaring global demand for ivory and rhino horn to inadequate law enforcement and escalating human-wildlife conflicts.
In response, the spirit of community and resilience took hold. Local landowners and communities rallied together to form the Kenya Wildlife Conservancies Association (KWCA), a grassroots initiative determined to protect their natural heritage. At the same time, conservation NGOs began to realize that their fragmented, short-term efforts were no match for the sweeping challenges they faced.
The spark that would change everything ignited in November 2013, when the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) brought together diverse stakeholders for a pivotal meeting. This gathering set the stage for the first Conservation NGOs conference, aptly titled “Together for Kenya’s Wildlife.” Held at the scenic Enashipai Lodge in Naivasha from January 26 to 28, 2015, the conference united over 100 passionate voices from civil society, government, and international organizations. Amid spirited discussions and shared aspirations, a clear vision emerged: Kenya needed a unified national platform to coordinate its conservation efforts. In that inspiring moment, the name “Conservation Alliance of Kenya (CAK)” was born.
Building on this momentum, CAK was formally launched on April 12, 2016, and on December 22, 2016, it was officially registered as a limited liability company with 30 organizations joining its ranks. With its charter calling for coordinated advocacy, standardized data sharing, strategic resource mobilization, and collaborative policy development, CAK transformed from a visionary idea into a vital platform. Today, it stands as a beacon of hope and collaboration—uniting diverse stakeholders to secure the long-term sustainability of Kenya’s irreplaceable wildlife heritage.
OUR VALUE PROPOSITION
We are uniquely positioned as the only entity representing various conservation organizations to provide our members with a common platform to communicate, exchange and share their expertise and experiences on the conservation of the environment and natural resources at county, national, regional and global levels.
As a membership organization, we:-
- + Committed to coordinating and strengthening the capacity of members through cross-learning opportunities, innovation, and knowledge sharing.
- + Shall enhance effective partnerships and collaboration with county and national government towards good governance and strike a balance between development and conservation.
- + Commit to providing solutions to threats and challenges affecting the conservation of the environment and natural resources such as laws and policies on ecosystem-based approach - connectivity and benefit-sharing.
OUR THEORY OF CHANGE
At CAK, we envision a future where people, nature, and the economy flourish. Our approach is built on the belief that a unified, robust alliance among conservation organizations in Kenya is key to achieving transformative conservation outcomes.
IF: Conservation organizations across Kenya unite to form a strong, cohesive alliance that amplifies their collective voice.
THAT: This alliance commits to:
- + Advocating for policies and legislation that favor conservation,
- + Fostering strategic partnerships and collaboration,
- + Enhancing the capacity of its members through effective knowledge management and information sharing
THEN: These combined efforts will boost conservation actions across the country by increasing organizational capacity, access to critical knowledge, and collaborative impact.
THUS: This enhanced conservation action will pave the way toward a future where people, nature, and the economy not only coexist but thrive together.
By strengthening its own capacity and financial stability to support its members, CAK aims to lead this unified, strategic effort, ultimately driving meaningful conservation progress throughout Kenya.
OUR FIVE-YEAR PLAN FOR IMPACT
Over the next five years we will focus on the following goals:
+ Strategic Advocacy and lobbying for favorable legislation addressing + Promote partnership, collaboration and stakeholder engagement for improved conservation action.
+ Build the capacity of members and other key stakeholders to improve conservation outcomes.
+ Promote knowledge creation and information sharing.
+ Establish CAK as a strong and sustainable organization
