NAROK: A segment of Narok County’s populace has expressed support for President William Ruto’s directive to transfer Amboseli National Park to the County Government of Kajiado. During a public participation forum held at the Narok County Commissioner’s Conference Hall, attendees advocated for the transfer, emphasizing the potential benefits for local communities that have long coexisted with the park’s wildlife.
According to Kenya News Agency, the forum, organized by an advisory committee, gathered opinions from residents who believe that devolving control of the park could directly benefit locals through job creation and increased cash flow. Johnson Sipiteti, Narok County Executive Member in Charge of Tourism and Wildlife, highlighted the historical management of the park, noting its previous governance by the County Council of Kajiado before being transferred to the National Government in the 1970s. Sipiteti pointed out that the majority of wildlife lives outside the park and coexists with humans, thereby
necessitating a management model that benefits local residents.
Sipiteti proposed a revenue-sharing model wherein 40 percent of park revenue would go to the county government, 20 percent would directly benefit local communities, another 20 percent would support conservancies serving as buffer zones, and the remaining 20 percent would address planning needs. He suggested that the county’s share could be used to improve educational infrastructure, healthcare, roads, and water access.
Linus Nairimu, Narok County Executive in charge of Information, Communication, and Technology, also supported the transfer, emphasizing the potential for increased employment opportunities in roles such as game rangers and managers, which could improve living standards for the county’s unemployed youth.
Assistant County Commissioner Caroline Odhiambo, representing Commissioner Kipkech Lotiatia, underscored the significance of public participation forums, allowing residents to voice their views. The Cabinet Secretary for the Mini
stry of Tourism and Wildlife has appointed an advisory committee to develop a framework for transferring park functions to Kajiado’s county government.
