Pressure is mounting on the national government as several counties demand a share of revenue from Kenya’s national parks, following Kajiado County’s recent takeover of Amboseli National Park. The handover allows Kajiado to oversee park operations and collect income directly, while KWS and national authorities maintain supervisory roles.
Nairobi County is now seeking a similar arrangement for Nairobi National Park, with Governor Johnson Sakaja arguing the city bears costs of hosting the park, which occupies prime land that could generate revenue for housing and infrastructure.
Taita Taveta leaders are also pressing for revenue from Tsavo East and West, citing presidential promises of 50/50 revenue sharing, faster compensation for human–wildlife conflicts, and joint community projects like the Mzima Springs initiative. President William Ruto has confirmed host counties are entitled to half of all national park revenues, but some regions, including Taita Taveta, remain underserved despite parks generating billions annually.
The calls reflect growing demand for equitable distribution of conservation proceeds, aiming to boost local livelihoods and ensure counties hosting Kenya’s iconic wildlife benefit directly from tourism.
