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Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Dr. Alfred Mutua on Friday, 8th December, 2023, extended a generous hand of welcome to all Kenyans, granting them free entry into all national parks to commemorate Kenya’s upcoming 60th Jamhuri Day, to be marked on12th December, 2023.
Speaking at the entrance of the renowned Nairobi Animal Orphanage, Dr. Mutua, flanked by representatives of the KWS’s Board of Trustees Mr. Chris Foot and Dr. Helen Gichohi, Director General Dr. Erustus Kanga, Senior Management and staff, announced the government’s free invitation to all Kenyans who produce proof of their citizenship status at entry points. Kenyan children will enjoy free entry only if they are accompanied by adult Kenyan parents or guardians.
The CS stated that Kenya is the most beautiful country in the world, consisting of sprawling savannahs, sandy beaches, lush mountains, deserts and the imposing Great Rift Valley. “Many visitors come to Kenya to enjoy our unmatched flora and fauna, which we conserve and protect,” he said.
Dr. Mutua said that patriotic Kenyans and their families deserve to enjoy the biodiversity that God has blessed us with, as they celebrate Kenya’s 60th anniversary. He added that the free entrance extends to all marine parks, the Nairobi Safari Walk and animal orphanages, valid from 6.00 am to 6.00 pm on 12th December.
CS said that the government extended a similar gesture to Kenyans some years ago, adding that there was an influx of visitors as a result of that invitation. He requested Kenyans to be patient when visiting these facilities, urging them to adhere to the instructions of the KWS staff on duty at entry points on Jamhuri Day for their safety and security, because the expected high visitation would translate into accessing the facilities in turns.
Dr. Mutua noted that Kenya also boasts national reserves such as the Masai Mara, calling upon Governors of County Governments that manage these national reserves to also consider extending a similar waiver to Kenyan citizens to enable them enjoy our heritage. “Please come and enjoy yourselves and know that ‘Mbele iko sawa,’” he concluded.
