Kenyans granted free access to all game parks on Tourism day

Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano has announced free entry to all game parks and reserves for Kenyans on Saturday, September 28, as part of the UN World Tourism Week celebrations kicking off on Monday.

Highlights

Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano announces free entry to all game parks and reserves on Saturday September 28th 2024
CS Rebecca Miano explains why there will be no charges
CS Rebecca Miano discusses the importance of appreciating and safeguarding nature

This initiative aims to promote domestic tourism and encourages Kenyans to explore and appreciate the nation’s rich heritage.

During a World Rhino Day event at Sereolipi School in Samburu County on Sunday, CS Miano emphasized the importance of this opportunity and why there will be no gate charges.

“It is a week to showcase the magical Kenya in terms of beaches, our safaris, our culture 2024, and other rich products that we have in our country,” she stated.

Miano urged citizens to take full advantage of the chance to discover the country’s natural attractions and appreciate what it offers.

“The Cabinet did approve that on the 28th of September this year, we will allow all Kenyans to visit our national parks without any charge, I encourage Kenyans to turn out in large numbers to see what our parks and reserves have to offer, and appreciate deeply the need to manage and conserve our wildlife.” she added.

It’s a great day to kickstart Tourism Week Commemoration in Kenya as we celebrate the theme of “Tourism and Peace.” This is a special time for us to proudly showcase Magical Kenya and our vibrant cultural heritage.
This year, Kisumu County is our gracious host for Tourism Week… pic.twitter.com/QWnjLT9vUT
— CS Rebecca Miano, EGH (@rebecca_miano) September 23, 2024

The CS also reminded visitors to adhere to safety regulations while exploring these wildlife-rich areas.

The World Tourism Day is celebrated annually on September 27 to raise awareness about tourism’s immense value and its vital role in job creation, economic growth, and sustainable development.

Rhino Conservation

Kenya has the third largest rhinoceros population in the world, after South Africa and Namibia reason why CS Miano emphasized Kenya’s dedication to safeguarding rhino herds and other wildlife for upcoming generations in regards to rhino conservation.

“At the Ministry level, we have embraced innovative technologies such as drones and forensic evidence to strengthen our rhino conservation efforts,” she explained.

I assure the global community that Kenya will continue playing its part in wildlife conservation, especially in expanding rhino ranges and ensuring their protection for posterity.” CS Miano shared.

According to latest estimates from a variety of sources, there are an estimated 1,780 rhinos in Kenya. Of those 1,780 rhinos in Kenya, WWF estimates put 938 eastern black rhinos as living in Kenya and Save the Rhinos suggests at an estimated 840 southern white rhinos living in the country.

Benefits of having Rhinos

They happen to be important grazers, consuming large amounts of vegetation, which helps shape the African landscape. This does benefit other animals and keeps a healthy balance within the ecosystem. Local people also depend on the natural resources within rhino habitat for food, fuel and income.