Kenya lions statue auction raises almost $170,000

Lion statue auction raises Sh12.6M
Written By:Margaret Kalekye , Posted: Sat, Nov 07, 2009

Fifty life-size lion sculptures were auctioned off to the highest bidder Friday night, raising Sh12.6 million [US$168,674.71].

The event organized by the Born Free Foundation in collaboration with Wild in Art, marked the climax of the Pride of Kenya project, raising millions of shillings for wild lion conservation.

“These exquisite fibre-glass lion sculptures have all been innovatively and intricately decorated by top Kenyan artists. Each and every one is a unique work of art.” said Alice Owen of Born Free Kenya.

“However, they are not just for decoration. They carry a critical message: Kenya’s wild lions are in serious trouble and need our urgent help. she added”

Several dignatries attended the auction held at the Kenya Wildlife Service Headquarters, including the Assistant Minister for Forestry and Wildlife Hon. Josphat Nanok, Virginia McKenna OBE, star of the film Born Free and founder of the Born Free Foundation, and Dr Julius Kipng’etich, Director of the Kenya Wildlife Service.

KWS boss said they will work with all sectors to ensure the lion population grows.

Though Kenys is still a lion stronghold, conservationists have expressed fears that unless urgent action is taken the lion could be extinct in the next 20 years.

http://www.kbc.co.ke/story.asp?ID=60825

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