NAIROBI, Kenya – The Tourism Regulatory Authority (TRA) has rolled out a nationwide crackdown on unlicensed and non-compliant tour operators, beginning with Sekenani in the Maasai Mara.
The move comes amid rising concerns over rogue drivers, harassment of visitors, and tour vehicles operating without valid licences — issues officials warn could damage both tourist safety and Kenya’s reputation as a global destination.
“This operation is going on countrywide. We are here in the Maasai Mara. We need to ensure that all operators comply with TRA regulations. Licensed operators will be listed on our website for easy verification by both local and international clients,” a TRA official said.
Enforcement Drive
TRA said the exercise will be carried out in partnership with county governments, security agencies, and local communities.
Security officers confirmed that additional personnel had been deployed to support the crackdown.
An official from the Narok County Government pledged full support, urging local guides to comply with licensing requirements.
Industry Reactions
The operation has been welcomed by sector players, who say it is long overdue.
“I support this initiative. They should be doing it regularly because we want sanity in the tourism industry,” said one advocate.
Kennedy Kaunda, Group CEO of the East Africa Tour Guides Association, said unqualified and unlicensed operators were undermining the sector:
“There are people who are not genuine. It’s dangerous because tourists are very delicate. If you treat them unprofessionally, it hurts the industry.”
Tougher Oversight
Beyond licensing, TRA confirmed it will also inspect driver and guide training, warning that offenders face fines and legal action.
The authority pledged to publish regular online updates of licensed operators to enhance transparency.
Last week, TRA stationed officers along the Ewaso Nyiro–Sekenani route to intercept tour vans suspected of flouting the rules.
