The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) is undertaking the first comprehensive review of conservation and access fees in 18 years, citing the rising costs of wildlife management and the urgent need for sustainable financing.
KWS Director General Erustus Kanga said the proposed Wildlife Conservation and Management (Access and Conservation) (Fees) Regulations, 2025 are aimed at aligning Kenya’s conservation model with today’s economic and environmental realities.
“The cost and complexity of conservation have changed drastically since the last fee review in 2007,” Kanga said.
“Fuel, security, technology and ranger costs have risen by up to 50 percent, yet our fees have remained largely static. The status quo is not sustainable.”
He spoke during a round table briefing at KWS Law Enforcement Academy in Manyani.
KWS manages over 20 percent of the country’s landmass, including 24 national parks, 29 national reserves and 215 community conservancies.
Kanja said currently, 90 percent of its internally generated revenue comes from conservation fees, which fund about three-quarters of its total budget.
Yet, only 28 percent of that budget goes directly into conservation work.
Kanga stated that five parks, Amboseli, Nairobi, Nakuru, Tsavo East and Tsavo West, account for nearly 80 percent of revenue, highlighting a fiscal imbalance that threatens long-term sustainability.
“Without a realistic fee structure, we cannot secure habitats, equip rangers, or support communities effectively,” he said.
The proposed changes are guided by four pillars: financial sustainability, conservation imperatives, equity and inclusion, and global benchmarking.
The DG said new fee categories will continue to offer subsidised rates for citizens and residents, with Kenyans paying as little as Sh600 compared to non-resident fees of $60–$100 (approximately Sh7,000 to 12,000).
He said ten percent of revenue will be shared with local communities.
The review also proposes incentives such as free entry for people with disabilities, senior citizens above 70 years and children under five.
Additional offerings like night game drives, boating and ranger-led experiences are also in the pipeline.
“Our fees are still lower than regional peers,” Kanga noted.
“This review reflects the true value of our natural capital, while ensuring Kenyans remain included and empowered.”
Kanga emphasised that the process remains consultative, with public participation forums planned nationwide and final approval resting with Parliament.
He appealed to the media to help demystify the reforms.
“Parliament will have the final say. Between now and then, the national conversation on the future of our conservation will depend on your editorial leadership,” he said.
Kanga urged the media to help amplify the facts so Kenyans can understand the financial flow, mobilise participation and frame the narrative.
“This is not a “tax.” It is an investment in our shared legacy—a legacy of elephants, rhinos, lions, coral reefs and sacred forests. Wildlife cannot speak for themselves,” Kanga said.
“We are not imposing a policy; we are inviting a partnership to safeguard our wildlife, economy, and national identity.”
