The Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife has issued a statement after footage showing tourists outside their vans in the Maasai Mara during the wildebeest migration went viral on social media.
In a statement on Wednesday, August 20, Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano explained that the incident took place when visitors had alighted from their vans at a flooded area to wait for the water to subside.
"The Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife has noted the widely circulated footage from the Maasai Mara showing visitors outside their tour vans in close proximity to wildlife during the ongoing wildebeest migration.
"The County Government of Narok, through the Chief Warden, has clarified that this occurred at the flooded Purungat Gate, where visitors had alighted while waiting for the water to subside," the statement read.
While acknowledging the explanation, Miano stressed that the ministry was disturbed by the images, noting that they could tarnish Kenya’s reputation in conservation.
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"While this context is important, the Ministry remains deeply concerned by the images, given the global sensitivity surrounding conservation and the Maasai Mara's critical role in Kenya's international reputation," the statement added.
In its response, Miano emphasized the need for strict enforcement of park rules to prevent such occurrences in future.
She noted that tour operators must take responsibility for ensuring that visitors comply with the regulations while inside the reserve.
"Tour operators must ensure visitors remain in vehicles at all times, except in designated areas. Narok County, with support from the Ministry and Kenya Wildlife Service, should increase ranger presence and strengthen enforcement, particularly at sensitive crossing points," the statement further read.
Miano also stressed that accountability measures will be taken against any drivers, guides, or companies that permit violations of park regulations.
“Drivers, guides, or companies permitting clients to disregard park regulations will face disciplinary or legal consequences," the statement continued.
On the issue of safety, Miano noted that the well-being of visitors and the protection of wildlife remain paramount, adding that preventing unsafe interactions is essential to conserving the Maasai Mara and ensuring the security of tourists.
She further indicated that it will work closely with Narok County to improve oversight and increase awareness among visitors and tour operators.
“The Ministry will collaborate with the County Government of Narok to streamline regulations, harmonise visitor management, and run awareness campaigns for visitors and operators. Clearer signage and visitor education will be introduced at key gates and migration viewing points to prevent recurrence," the statement concluded.
This comes a month after Maasai Mara National Reserve earned global recognition after being officially inscribed into the World Book of Records for hosting the largest annual terrestrial wildlife migration on Earth.
In a letter addressed to Narok Governor Patrick Ole Ntutu on Thursday, July 10, World Book of Records President Santosh Shukla confirmed the prestigious listing under the title, World’s Greatest Annual Terrestrial Wildlife Migration.
“We are delighted to inform you that the Maasai Mara National Reserve has been officially included in World Book of Records under the distinguished title: ‘World’s Greatest Annual Terrestrial Wildlife Migration’ for hosting the largest and most dramatic annual land animal migration on Earth, involving over 1.5 million wildebeests, zebras, and antelopes traversing the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem," the letter read.
Shukla noted that the recognition serves as an international nod to Kenya’s commitment to biodiversity and sustainable tourism.
“This remarkable recognition honors the ecological significance of the Maasai Mara and highlights Kenya’s exceptional contribution to wildlife conservation, global biodiversity, and sustainable eco-tourism," the letter added.
Reacting to the news, Ntuntu credited the recognition to the efforts his administration has undertaken since he assumed office.
“Upon assuming office two and a half years ago, my administration launched an ambitious campaign to restructure and revitalize the Maasai Mara National Reserve, with the objective of preserving and enhancing this invaluable natural asset," he said.
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