Unlike many other county leaders who continue to urge the national government to increase funding for local development, Meru Governor Isaac Mutuma is taking a different approach. Instead of asking for more money, he is requesting the government to permit Meru residents to milk elephants.
Speaking during a county event focused on tourism, Governor Mutuma emphasized the importance of fostering a strong relationship between local communities and wildlife. He suggested that for residents to genuinely care about wild animals like elephants and giraffes, they must derive tangible benefits from them.
According to the governor, the key to building this connection lies in offering value—specifically, the value of milk. He believes that if locals are allowed to extract and utilize elephant milk, they will develop a vested interest in protecting and nurturing these animals. In turn, this unique bond could greatly enhance conservation efforts and attract more tourists to the region, thereby boosting the local economy.
