Nairobi, July 11- The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has proposed a significant increase in entry fees to several major national parks the first adjustment in 18 years as part of efforts to close a KSh12 billion funding gap affecting conservation and park operations.

Under the new pricing structure, entry into Nairobi National Park for Kenyan citizens would more than double from KSh430 to KSh1,000. Amboseli and Lake Nakuru parks would see local rates rise from KSh860 to KSh1,500, while Tsavo East and Tsavo West would increase from KSh515 to KSh1,000. Charges for international tourists would also go up, with rates in Tsavo parks climbing from $60 to $90.

KWS Director-General Erustus Kanga defended the proposal, saying the review is critical for sustaining wildlife conservation, improving infrastructure, and enhancing visitor experiences. “Our fees have remained unchanged for over a decade, yet operational costs and threats to wildlife have increased. This review ensures the survival of our wildlife and long-term conservation resilience,” he said.

KWS assured the public that Kenya’s park fees would still remain affordable compared to similar destinations in the region. Kanga added that the proposal followed extensive impact assessments and consultations with key stakeholders, including communities, tour operators, and conservation groups.

“This process has been transparent and inclusive because protecting our wildlife is a shared responsibility,” he noted.

The proposal comes as the country’s tourism and conservation sectors continue to recover from COVID-19-related losses. With conservation efforts heavily dependent on tourism revenue, KWS warns that failure to boost funding could jeopardize the sustainability of Kenya’s world-famous parks.

If approved, the revised park entry fees are expected to be implemented later this year.

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