Thursday, August 21, 2025 - Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano has ordered stricter enforcement of park rules after a viral video showed tourists blocking wildebeests during the annual migration in the Maasai Mara.
Narok County, through its Chief Warden, clarified that the
incident occurred at the flooded Purungat Gate, where visitors briefly alighted
as they waited for water to subside.
The county said the incident lasted less than a minute and
that the tourists were quickly ordered back into their vehicles.
It also dismissed claims that tour guides had been bribed
with $20 (about Ksh2,584) to let the tourists step out, though investigations
into the allegations are ongoing.
Despite the explanation, CS Miano said the images had harmed
Kenya’s global reputation, stressing the need to prioritise both visitor safety
and wildlife protection.
She directed tour guides to keep tourists inside vehicles
except at designated points and urged Narok County to deploy more rangers at
sensitive crossing areas.
Miano further warned that rogue guides, drivers, and
companies that flout park regulations will face legal or disciplinary action.
“The Maasai Mara is central to Kenya’s conservation image.
Incidents like this cannot be tolerated,” she said.
The Ministry announced it will partner with Narok County to
strengthen enforcement, harmonise visitor management, and roll out awareness
campaigns with clearer signage at key migration viewing points.
Tourists in the Maasai Mara blocked the wildebeest migration, forcing them back into the river. This is Western arrogance choking our heritage. @realDonaldTrump must pay Kenya for every life lost your interference comes with a bill.
— George Njoroge (@georgenjoroge_) August 20, 2025
pic.twitter.com/FLon0e8OqV
The Kenyan DAILY POST
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