Tourism and wildlife stakeholders endorse proposed park entry fee review
By Carolyne Tomno
Tourism and wildlife stakeholders in Watamu, Kilifi County, have expressed their support for the proposed review of park entry fees by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), calling for the changes to be accompanied by improved service delivery and enhanced conservation outcomes.
Speaking during a stakeholder engagement forum on the proposed review of conservation fees held at Turtle Bay Resort, Patrick Changawa, a tour operator in Watamu, noted that Watamu is a key contributor to Kenya’s tourism sector as he thanked KWS for engaging Watamu stakeholders in the fees review process.
“The KWS team has sensitized us on how the revised conversation fees will be utilized. A significant portion of the funds will go towards improving marine parks through coral reef restoration, pollution control, and community outreach programs. The proposed fee review will also boost security operations, ensuring the safety of our visitors and strengthening the Kenyan Coast as a leading global tourist destination.”
KWS Senior Assistant Director for the Coast Conservation Area, Elema Hapicha, noted that similar public participation forums are being held across the country.
“Watamu stakeholders have shared valuable feedback and recommendations on the draft conservation fee structure,” Hapicha said. “They have emphasized that any additional revenue must translate into tangible improvements in conservation and service delivery, particularly within marine parks.
We are committed to addressing the issues raised and to safeguarding Kenya’s natural heritage. The input gathered through these forums and email submissions will inform a revised draft, which will be subjected to further stakeholder validation.”
Geoffrey Maundu, Secretary General of the Umoja Town Watamu Beach Operators Association, welcomed the fee review, calling it long overdue and urging careful management of the funds, especially in the Turtle Bay area.
“KWS has shared their proposals with us, and we have provided our feedback. Once the new fees structure is effected, we expect to see real improvements, such as better infrastructure at Turtle Bay, including proper access roads and public washrooms,” he said.
The proposed review is guided by the draft Wildlife Conservation and Management (Access and Conservation Fees) Regulations, 2025. If adopted, this will mark the first comprehensive adjustment of conservation fees in 18 years – a necessary step to reflect current conservation challenges and ensure sustainable funding for Kenya’s protected areas.
