NAIROBI, Kenya – Visitors to Nairobi’s Karura Forest will no longer be able to pay cash at the gates, with all entry and parking fees now processed exclusively through the government’s e-Citizen platform.
The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) announced on Thursday that beginning Friday, August 29, 2025, all payments for gate entry, parking, and related services — including those at the popular Sigiria block — must be made via the official e-Citizen Paybill number 222222.
The move follows a directive from the National Treasury requiring state agencies to phase out alternative payment systems in favour of e-Citizen.
KFS said the shift was part of a government-wide initiative to enhance accountability and seal revenue leakages.
“This transition is part of a nationwide effort to improve transparency, security, and efficiency in public service delivery while making the visitor experience more convenient,” the agency stated.
The forest, one of Nairobi’s leading recreational and conservation spaces, attracts thousands of residents and tourists who go there for jogging, cycling, birdwatching, nature walks, and picnics.
KFS assured that apart from the new payment system, all other operations remain unchanged, including ongoing collaboration with the Karura Community Forest Association.
“We invite you to continue enjoying Karura Forest and welcome your feedback to help us enhance our services,” KFS added.
The government has been gradually moving all state payments to the e-Citizen platform, with ministries, departments, and agencies ordered to comply with the new digital revenue collection framework.
