NAIROBI, Kenya – Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) is drafting new rules that could see vulnerable groups and frontline tourism workers gain free access to national parks, reserves, and sanctuaries.
The proposals, contained in the draft Wildlife Conservation and Management (Access and Conservation) (Fees) Regulations, 2025, were unveiled at a stakeholder forum in Nairobi convened by the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife.
If adopted, Kenyan citizens aged 70 and above, children under five years, and persons with disabilities would be exempted from entry fees.
Tour guides, drivers, porters, and boat crews registered with the Tourism Regulatory Authority (TRA) would also enjoy the waiver.
Fishing boats under licensed Beach Management Units (BMUs) would further be spared anchoring charges in marine protected areas.
To qualify, beneficiaries would be required to present valid documentation such as a national ID, passport, disability card, or professional licence.
KWS Director General Prof. Erustus Kanga said the move is designed to make Kenya’s wildlife heritage more inclusive while recognising those who support the country’s tourism industry.
“The new regulations have considered vulnerable and special groups. This is about fairness, dignity, and recognition. The people who connect visitors to our wildlife and those who have given their lives to this country should not be excluded from enjoying our natural treasures,” he said.
The draft framework also categorises visitors into four groups: East African citizens, Kenyan residents, African citizens, and non-residents, with charges varying accordingly.
East African citizens will include nationals from EAC member states, Kenyan residents will be foreigners with valid residence permits, African citizens will cover visitors from other African countries outside the EAC, while non-residents will refer to international tourists from outside the continent.
The proposed changes come amid ongoing debates on how to balance revenue collection with inclusivity in access to Kenya’s wildlife resources, which remain central to both conservation and tourism.
