Republic of Kenya

Known simultaneously for its lush game preserves and wildlife and trouble with poaching and the near extinction of various species, Kenya is a study in opposites. Inhabited since the dawn of human history, the nation struggles with tensions between ancient traditions, relics of colonization, and the race for modernization. Compared to many of its neighbors, the nation is fairly stable, but corruption is ubiquitous. Numerous ethnic groups are found in notable numbers within the nation’s borders, creating both conflict and diversity. Tourism and overseas investment, mostly from China, helps the economy, but complicates efforts to reduce illegal hunting and smuggling operations. The result is a complex and culturally rich nation with a variety of problems.
Poaching is a serious problem in Kenya and the various criminals who engage in it often think nothing of murdering game wardens, officials, and bystanders who get in the way of their operations. The ivory trade and “medicinal” ingredients harvested from other animals are major financial motivators to break Kenya’s many anti-poaching laws and edicts. A large number of officials and citizens are complicit in these activities, which makes stopping these practices very difficult. Pressures from rich tourists and foreign markets seeking ivory and other goods create even more difficulties. Some wildlife-oriented superheroes such as Bwana Tembo (“Lord Elephant”) and Nirkana the Night Hunter work tirelessly alongside Kenyan game wardens and police to stop poaching, but it’s a difficult struggle. Still, as Kenya’s photography safari and other non-hunting based tourism grow in popularity and profit, efforts to eliminate poaching gain support.
Bwana Tembo is a former game warden granted great strength and mystic powers by an ancient elephant god.
Nirkana the Night Hunter is a former mercenary turned safari guide whose family was murdered by poachers. Taking the Massai name meaning “born of night,” he now wages a one-man war against poachers, murders, and criminals.