India Keen On Acquiring Cheetahs From Kenya As PM Modi Welcomes African Nation Into Big Cat Alliance

During the state visit of Kenyan President Dr William Samoei Ruto to India, the environment ministry revealed on Tuesday (5 December) that India is keen on acquiring cheetahs from Kenya, New Indian Express reported.

The specifics regarding the quantity of cheetahs India is requesting, the amount Kenya can supply, and the proposed timeline have not yet been discussed. However, an official from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that the environment ministry has indeed requested for cheetahs. Currently, Kuno National Park is home to 15 surviving cheetahs.

India & Kenya have recently inked five Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) spanning sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, and more. These also include sports, digital solutions, culture and education.

Discussions were also held regarding maritime security, cooperation in the realms of space, healthcare, and education. In addition, Kenya has made the decision to become a member of the Global Biofuels Alliance, Big Cats Alliance, and the International Solar Alliance.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his pleasure over Kenya's decision to become part of the Global Biofuels Alliance, Big Cat Alliance, and International Solar Alliance. He believes this will significantly bolster global endeavors to conserve big cats.

India has resolved to extend an additional credit line of $100 million to Kenya for agricultural initiatives, which encompasses the provision of machinery. This decision increases the total credit line to $250 million.

During his trip, President Ruto had meetings with both Prime Minister Modi and President Droupadi Murmu.

Prime Minister Modi has stated that both India and Kenya agree unanimously that terrorism is the greatest threat to humanity. Consequently, they have resolved to enhance their collaborative efforts in counter-terrorism activities.

In the meantime, President Ruto expressed admiration for India's progress in the digital realm, declaring Kenya's plans to enter into digital agreements.

He disclosed that the Kenyan Minister of Information and Communication Technology had made a trip to India to gain insights into digital ID and the digitization of government services. Ruto lauded India's accomplishments, especially their use of technology for efficient administration.