George Odhiambo, Head of Fencing Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has won the Michael Werikhe perpetual trophy for services to conservation donated by the East Africa Wild Life Society (EAWLS) and selected by Rhino Ark's Rhino Charge Committee.

Mr. Odhiambo has been working for the Aberdare Fencing Project for a continuous 12 years and has shown an incredible support to this project. He took this task on whilst he was the Works Supervisor, Aberdare National Park- a position he held until his new appointment. He is now Head of Fencing, KWS.

His role involves coordinating all KWS fences countrywide. In addition to Rhino Ark's Aberdare Fence, this includes: Meru fencing, Mt. Elgon Fencing, Tsavo East and West fencing, Shimba Hills, etc.

Mr. Odhiambo physically walks the fence line and has to discuss particular alignment issues with local communities along the fence line. This opens opportunities for him to meet with members of the communities, to contribute in the resolving of conflicts as well as preparing each community for fence construction.

As an engineer, George has maintained high standards and has fought for completion deadlines for the fence. Mr. Colin Church, Chairman Rhino Ark commented, "When requests, mainly from the Forest Department come up during community meetings for unacceptable compromises like more gates or a change of fence line over a steep section when local elements on the fence line wish to exclude more, George is a resolute fighter for ensuring the best for the forest. It is for such reasons that the Rhino Charge Committee decided to give George Odhiambo the award. He has shown exemplary participation in conservation. "

Mr. Odhiambo was presented the award at a ceremony attended by the Director of KWS, Mr. Julius Kipngétich, Director of EAWLS, Mr. Ali Kaka and the Chairman of Rhino Ark, Mr. Colin Church at KWS Headquarters.

KWS and Rhino Ark have been close working partners in protecting the Aberdare Conservation Area. The Rhino Ark fence is an effective management tool that has created an enabling environment for KWS as it reduces poaching of wildlife and limited resources through approved gate access. Gate entry points into the Aberdare National Park are professionally manned by KWS rangers. Rhino Ark has assisted in raising funds through Rhino Charge. This year's Rhino Charge proceeds of Kshs 53,322,470.55 clearly show Rhino Arks commitment in supporting KWS to secure the Aberdare Forests.