President William Ruto has directed the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) to review all leases awarded to various investors and individuals operating in the national parks.
Speaking during the Rangers Passing-out Parade, Manyani, Taita Taveta County on Tuesday, December 3, Ruto acknowledged that the process had already commenced adding that all leases needed to be reviewed.
He explained the review would ensure that the terms and conditions set out are in line with government policies and help generate more revenue for KWS.
KWS usually gives leases to investors to set up various facilities such as camps and hotels in the parks frequented by tourists.
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"Leases must be reviewed and I am very happy that there is progress in making sure that the leases that have been given to persons operating in the parks reflect the current situation," Ruto directed.
On the other hand, he directed the Ministry of Tourism to work on a policy that would attract investments in the national parks through Public-Private Partnerships (PPP).
As detailed by the Head of State there was a lot of untapped potential in the parks which can generate revenue for KWS and enhance tourism in the country.
"Within the existing legal framework, KWS should establish robust Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) to attract investments in infrastructure development, create sustainable and competitive tourism products, and enhance park capacity," he stated.
"I have asked the Ministry to provide a policy direction on making sure that we unlock the tremendous opportunities that exist in our KWS assets."
