Ivory Burning Site

1. Introduction

Nairobi National Park (NNP) holds a special place in the global fight against poaching and wildlife trafficking. One of the most significant landmarks within the park is the Ivory Burning Site, a symbol of Kenya’s enduring commitment to wildlife conservation.

First established in 1989, this site has become a powerful representation of the country’s stance against the illegal ivory trade and its broader conservation efforts. This guide will delve into the history, significance, and conservation efforts associated with the Ivory Burning Site, along with practical advice for visiting this iconic location.

---

History of the Ivory Burning Site

The Ivory Burning Site in Nairobi National Park was inaugurated in 1989 by President Daniel arap Moi, marking the world’s first public destruction of ivory. In a symbolic act, 12 tons of elephant tusks were burned to protest the illegal ivory trade and combat the poaching crisis that had decimated Kenya’s elephant population, dropping from 65,000 in 1979 to 17,000 by 1989.

The burn, organized by Dr. Richard Leakey, aimed to raise global awareness and secure a ban on ivory trade at the CITES meeting that year, which was successfully achieved in 1990. This event inspired other nations to destroy their ivory stockpiles, making it a pivotal moment in global conservation.

The purpose of the ivory burn is to diminish the demand for ivory products, emphasizing that the real value of ivory lies in living elephants and rhinos. By publicly burning ivory—worth millions on the black market—Kenya reinforced its commitment to protecting endangered species, choosing conservation over profit.

Since 1989, Kenya has held multiple ivory burns, including the largest one in 2016, where President Uhuru Kenyatta burned 105 tons of ivory, reinforcing the message that ivory trade is unacceptable. These burns have turned the Ivory Burning Site into an international symbol of wildlife conservation and Kenya’s leadership in the fight against poaching.

See Flickr album of the 2016 burning of Ivory here posted by USAID.

---

Here’s a comparison of the 1989 and 2016 ivory burnings at Nairobi National Park in a table format:

Aspect	1989 Ivory Burning	2016 Ivory Burning
Date	July 18, 1989	April 30, 2016
President	Daniel arap Moi	Uhuru Kenyatta
Amount of Ivory Burned	12 tons (from 2,000 elephants)	105 tons (from 8,000 elephants)
Rhino Horns Burned	None	1.35 tons (from 343 rhinos)
Market Value of Ivory	Approximately $3 million	Estimated $150-220 million
Purpose	To halt the ivory trade and poaching; promote a global ivory ban	Reinforce Kenya’s anti-ivory stance; further discourage poaching
Global Context	Aimed at securing a global ivory trade ban at CITES in 1990	Emphasized ongoing need for strict anti-poaching measures globally
Symbolism	First-ever public ivory burning; set global precedent	Largest ivory burn in history; reaffirmed global leadership in conservation
Execution	Ivory stacked in a 20-foot pile; fueled by gasoline	Ivory stacked into towers up to 10 feet high; built over 10 days
Attendance	Diplomats, conservationists, and Kenyan officials	Global leaders, including President Ali Bongo Ondimba of Gabon
Impact	Helped secure the 1990 CITES global ivory trade ban	Reinforced global resolve against the ivory trade; strengthened conservation efforts
Long-term Legacy	Set the foundation for global conservation movements	Reaffirmed Kenya’s ongoing leadership in wildlife protection

There were also ivory burned in 1981 and in 2011 which were at a smaller but still big scale.

Here’s a table summarizing all four ivory burnings in Kenya:

Burning	Date	President	Location	Amount of Ivory Burned	Rhino Horns Burned	Purpose/Significance
First	July 18, 1989	Daniel arap Moi	Nairobi National Park	12 tons (from 2,000 elephants)	None	First-ever public ivory burning; aimed at halting the ivory trade and promoting a global ban on ivory sales.
Second	July 1991	Daniel arap Moi	Nairobi National Park	6.8 tons	None	Reinforced Kenya’s stance against poaching and continued support for the global ivory trade ban.
Third	March 2009	Mwai Kibaki	Tsavo National Park	5 tons	None	Signified Kenya’s ongoing commitment to combat poaching and further discourage any revival of the ivory trade.
Fourth	April 30, 2016	Uhuru Kenyatta	Nairobi National Park	105 tons (from 8,000 elephants)	1.35 tons (from 343 rhinos)	Largest ivory burning in history; aimed to reinforce the global fight against poaching and emphasize the worthlessness of ivory.

3. Significance and Symbolism of the Ivory Burning Site

The Ivory Burning Site is much more than just a location where ivory is destroyed—it represents a global movement against wildlife exploitation.

• Ivory Burning Site Nairobi significance: By destroying ivory, Kenya made a bold statement that ivory has no value unless it is on a live animal. The site has since become a global icon for anti-poaching efforts and has attracted attention from conservationists, tourists, and governments around the world.
• Symbolism of the Ivory Burning Site: Each pile of ivory burned represents hundreds of elephants killed, but it also symbolizes hope for future generations of wildlife. The powerful image of burning tusks is a reminder that the future of Africa’s wildlife depends on eliminating the ivory trade.
• Role of the Ivory Burning Site in conservation: This site plays a crucial role in ongoing wildlife conservation efforts. Beyond its symbolic value, the site underscores Kenya’s comprehensive approach to tackling poaching, including increasing park security, engaging local communities, and enforcing stricter penalties for wildlife crimes.
• Anti-poaching symbols in Nairobi: In addition to the Ivory Burning Site, Nairobi National Park is home to other key landmarks and initiatives focused on raising awareness about poaching and the importance of conservation.

---

Below is a very helpful video that puts into perspective the poaching menace;

4. Visiting the Ivory Burning Site

For visitors to Nairobi National Park, the Ivory Burning Site is a must-see destination, offering a deep and meaningful connection to Kenya’s conservation efforts.

• Ivory Burning Site location Nairobi Park: The site is located near the main entrance of Nairobi National Park and is accessible as part of many guided tours.
• Nairobi Ivory Burning Site tours: Several tour operators offer trips that include a visit to the site, often combined with a half-day safari to explore the park’s wildlife. These tours provide historical context and insights into the ongoing fight against poaching.
• Visiting the Ivory Burning Site Nairobi: When visiting, you’ll get a chance to see the monument that marks where the ivory was burned. The best time to visit is during the early morning or late afternoon, when the park is quieter and the weather is cooler, allowing you to take in the full impact of the site’s significance.
• Ivory Burning Site guided tours: Opting for a guided tour ensures that you gain a deeper understanding of the history and purpose of the site. Guides are well-versed in Kenya’s conservation efforts and can provide firsthand accounts of how the ivory burning ceremonies have shaped global wildlife protection.

---

5. Conservation and Educational Efforts at the Ivory Burning Site

The Ivory Burning Site is more than just a memorial—it is an active hub for conservation education and wildlife protection.

• Ivory Burning Site conservation efforts: The site serves as a reminder of Kenya’s commitment to wildlife preservation, and it is closely linked to ongoing conservation projects, such as rhino and elephant protection programs. These efforts include habitat restoration, anti-poaching patrols, and increased security within Nairobi National Park.
• Ivory Burning Site educational programs: Educational tours and programs offered at the site help inform visitors about the dangers of poaching and the role they can play in conservation. These programs are particularly impactful for school groups and international tourists, providing firsthand lessons on the importance of protecting wildlife.
• Nairobi Park poaching awareness site: The site is also used to raise awareness about the critical need for anti-poaching measures. Ranger-led talks and interactive displays educate the public on how poaching threatens ecosystems and the steps being taken to combat it.
• Conservation tours at Nairobi National Park: Visitors can take specialized conservation tours that include a stop at the Ivory Burning Site, giving them a broader understanding of the park’s role in protecting Kenya’s wildlife.

---

6. Kenya’s Legacy of Ivory Burning and Anti-Poaching

Kenya’s bold actions at the Ivory Burning Site have inspired other nations to destroy their ivory stockpiles and implement stricter wildlife protection laws.

• Ivory burning events at Nairobi Park: Since the first event in 1989, Kenya has continued to burn confiscated ivory, with the largest burning taking place in 2016, where 105 tons of ivory were destroyed. These events have sent a clear message that Kenya prioritizes wildlife over profit from the ivory trade.
• Kenya ivory burning campaigns: Kenya has launched global campaigns to encourage other nations to destroy their ivory stockpiles, thereby reducing demand and protecting elephants and rhinos from poaching.
• Nairobi Park anti-poaching campaign: The park’s anti-poaching initiatives have significantly reduced illegal hunting, with more rangers being deployed and modern surveillance technologies being implemented.
• Kenya anti-poaching efforts: Kenya’s broader anti-poaching strategy includes stricter penalties for poachers, increased international cooperation, and active community involvement in protecting wildlife.

---

7. Key Facts and Landmark Status of the Ivory Burning Site

• Key facts about Nairobi Ivory Burning Site:
  • Established in 1989.
  • Over 12 tons of ivory burned in the inaugural event.
  • Largest ivory burn in 2016 with 105 tons.
  • A global symbol of the fight against illegal wildlife trafficking.
• Nairobi National Park ivory monument: A monument at the site commemorates the ivory burning events and the animals that lost their lives to poaching.
• Nairobi Park landmark locations: The Ivory Burning Site joins other landmarks like Hyena Dam and Leopard Cliffs in offering significant historical and ecological insights into the park.
• Ivory burning site and Kenya’s heritage: The site has become an integral part of Kenya’s national heritage, symbolizing the country’s unwavering stance on conservation and its leadership in the global anti-poaching movement.

---

8. The Impact of the Ivory Burning Site on Tourism

The Ivory Burning Site has not only become a key location for conservationists but also a major draw for tourists.

• Nairobi ivory burning and tourism: The site attracts visitors from all over the world, eager to learn about Kenya’s wildlife conservation efforts and see firsthand the impact of its fight against poaching.
• Wildlife protection at Ivory Burning Site: The site’s existence has helped raise awareness and support for wildlife protection, making it a key stop for those interested in eco-tourism and sustainable travel.
• Nairobi National Park wildlife and ivory: The protection of elephants and rhinos, two species heavily targeted by poachers, has been enhanced by the attention the site brings to conservation efforts. Visitors can witness the impact of these efforts as they encounter these majestic animals in the wild.

---

9. Commemorative and Conservation Events

The Ivory Burning Site remains active as a place of remembrance and continued commitment to wildlife preservation.

• Ivory burning site commemoration events: Annual events are held at the site to commemorate past ivory burnings and reinforce Kenya’s dedication to ending the ivory trade.
• Nairobi ivory burning site memorial: The site also serves as a memorial for the elephants and rhinos lost to poaching, and a reminder of the ongoing battle to protect wildlife.

---

10. Conclusion

The Ivory Burning Site at Nairobi National Park is a powerful symbol of Kenya’s leadership in the global fight against poaching. From its historical significance to its ongoing role in conservation and education, the site serves as a testament to Kenya’s unwavering commitment to protecting its wildlife. Visiting the Ivory Burning Site offers not only a unique glimpse into this pivotal moment in history but also a deeper understanding of the importance of conservation efforts that continue to this day.

By visiting this iconic landmark, you contribute to the ongoing preservation of Africa’s wildlife and stand in solidarity with efforts to eliminate the illegal ivory trade.

Ivory Burning Site: A Symbolic Landmark Turned Picnic Site

The Ivory Burning Site in Nairobi National Park, once the stage for Kenya’s historic stand against the illegal ivory trade, has evolved into a picnic site where visitors can reflect on its legacy while enjoying the natural beauty of the park. The site’s transformation into a picnic area offers a unique blend of history, conservation symbolism, and recreation, allowing guests to engage with the powerful messages of wildlife protection while spending time in nature.

A Place of Reflection

Once a stage for the burning of 12 tons of ivory by President Daniel arap Moi in 1989 and later 105 tons under Uhuru Kenyatta in 2016, the site symbolizes Kenya’s fight against poaching. Now a picnic area, it invites visitors to relax and learn about these pivotal moments in conservation through interpretive signs.

Blending Recreation and Conservation

Turning the Ivory Burning Site into a picnic spot blends conservation with leisure, making it accessible to families, tourists, and school groups. While enjoying a meal or snack, visitors can contemplate the site’s role in protecting Kenya’s wildlife and the ongoing importance of conservation. The site serves as both a reminder of the battles fought to protect elephants and rhinos and as a space where people can appreciate the natural world that these efforts aim to preserve.

Experiencing the Picnic Site

• Location: The picnic site is located within Nairobi National Park, easily accessible via the park’s main routes.
• Scenic Views: Visitors can enjoy views of the surrounding savannah, with opportunities to spot wildlife nearby.
• Facilities: The site offers basic picnic amenities such as tables and seating areas, allowing for a comfortable rest during a game drive or park visit.

By transforming the Ivory Burning Site into a picnic area, Nairobi National Park continues to honor its conservation legacy while creating a space where visitors can connect with both nature and history. This initiative invites people to reflect on the ongoing fight against poaching and the importance of sustaining efforts to protect Africa’s wildlife for future generations.

Common FAQs on the Ivory Burning Site at Nairobi National Park

---

1. Why did Kenya burn its ivory instead of selling it to raise money for conservation?
Kenya chose to burn its ivory to make a strong statement against the illegal ivory trade. Selling ivory would perpetuate demand and encourage further poaching, undermining conservation efforts. The burn emphasized that the value of ivory is only meaningful when it remains on living animals.

---

2. How much ivory has been destroyed at the Ivory Burning Site?
Since the inaugural burn in 1989, Kenya has destroyed several large stockpiles of ivory. The largest burn occurred in 2016, when 105 tons of ivory were set ablaze, making it the largest destruction of ivory in history.

Over 10,000 elephants have their final legacy tied to this picnic site, which stands as a powerful symbol of conservation. It serves as a poignant reminder of the past struggles to protect wildlife and as a landmark for future generations to learn from the challenges of safeguarding these majestic animals.

---

3. Is the Ivory Burning Site open to the public?
Yes, the Ivory Burning Site is open to the public as part of guided tours within Nairobi National Park. Visitors can explore the site, learn about its history, and understand its significance through educational tours.

---

4. What impact did the ivory burn have on poaching in Kenya?
The public burning of ivory sent a global message, significantly raising awareness about the poaching crisis. Kenya’s bold stance contributed to an international movement to curb ivory demand, leading to increased penalties for poaching and a reduction in the illegal ivory trade. However, poaching continues to be a challenge, necessitating ongoing efforts.

---

5. How does the Ivory Burning Site support ongoing conservation efforts?
The site serves as both a memorial and an educational platform for anti-poaching efforts. By highlighting the consequences of the illegal ivory trade, the site reinforces Kenya’s commitment to wildlife protection and engages tourists in conservation dialogue. Funds generated through tourism help support broader conservation initiatives in Nairobi National Park.

---

6. How does the Ivory Burning Site relate to international conservation policies?
Kenya’s ivory burns have influenced global conservation policies, particularly in advocating for stricter regulations on ivory trade. The symbolic act of burning ivory led to international pressure for CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) to impose greater restrictions on the ivory market.

---

7. Can burning ivory affect the environment?
Burning large quantities of ivory creates carbon emissions, but the controlled burns are done with minimal environmental impact. The symbolic value of the burn outweighs the environmental concerns, as it contributes to long-term wildlife conservation by discouraging poaching.

---

8. Are there other countries that have destroyed ivory?
Yes, following Kenya’s lead, other countries, including the United States, China, France, and the Philippines, have destroyed ivory stockpiles to show their commitment to combating illegal wildlife trade and reducing global demand for ivory products.

---

9. How can visitors support the conservation efforts linked to the Ivory Burning Site?
Visitors can support the conservation efforts by taking guided tours of the site, donating to wildlife protection organizations, and raising awareness about the ongoing fight against the illegal ivory trade. Supporting ethical tourism and avoiding ivory products also contributes to the cause.

---

10. Has Kenya burned all of its ivory stockpiles?
No, Kenya still has a stockpile of confiscated ivory that has not yet been burned. The decision to burn ivory is typically made to coincide with international events or conservation milestones, allowing the country to draw attention to global anti-poaching efforts.