Amboseli National Park, one of Kenya’s most celebrated wildlife destinations, has entered a new era. In a historic move, the National Government has officially transferred the management of the park to the County Government of Kajiado.
This decision marks the end of a fifty-one-year dispute and signals a fresh approach to conservation led by the local community.
𝐀𝐦𝐛𝐨𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐢 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐤 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐊𝐚𝐣𝐢𝐚𝐝𝐨 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐲 𝐚𝐭 𝐌𝐚𝐚 𝐂𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐅𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐚𝐥 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓
What a landmark day at the Maa Cultural and Tourism Festival 2025 in the heart of Amboseli!
Graced by H.E.… pic.twitter.com/KaZEZ88sgf— Kenya Wildlife Service (@KWSKenya) November 8, 2025
A Landmark Moment for the Maa People
The handover took place during the third Maa Cultural and Tourism Festival, held within the park itself. President William Ruto presided over the ceremony and was installed as a Maa elder. He signed the Deed of Transfer, formally shifting the park’s operations from the Kenya Wildlife Service to the county government.
“This is not a weakening of conservation,” said the president. “It is a renewal because conservation led by the people lasts longer, works better, and heals deeper.”
The president praised the Maa community as natural custodians of the land and expressed confidence that Amboseli would flourish under their stewardship.
What Travellers Can Expect
Amboseli National Park is renowned for its stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro, vast herds of elephants, and rich Maasai culture. With the park now under local management, visitors can look forward to:
- Authentic cultural experiences through community-led tourism and festivals
- Enhanced conservation efforts rooted in indigenous knowledge
- Close encounters with wildlif,e including lions, elephants, zebras and hundreds of bird species
- Sustainable tourism models that directly benefit local communities
The park remains under the ownership of the Kenya Wildlife Service, ensuring national conservation standards are maintained. A new agency will manage the park professionally, with oversight from both county and national authorities.
Transition Timeline and Revenue Sharing
The transfer will be phased over four years:
- In 2026 and 2027, revenue will be shared equally between the national and county governments
- In 2027 and 2028, the county will receive seventy per cent
- By 2029, Kajiado County will have full financial control
Staff salaries will continue to be paid by the Kenya Wildlife Service until mid-2026 to ensure a smooth transition. A Transition Management Committee will oversee the integration of over one hundred personnel into the new park agency.
A Model for Future Conservation
The Amboseli handover has sparked interest among other counties, such as Taita Taveta, which hosts part of Tsavo National Park. These regions are now exploring similar models for joint management and revenue sharing.
Experts believe the Amboseli model could serve as a blueprint for future park devolution, balancing local control with national oversight. Success will depend on the counties’ ability to manage conservation and finances responsibly.
Why Amboseli Remains a Must Visit Destination
Located in southern Kenya, Amboseli offers:
- Unmatched elephant sightings with up to fifty herds in a single safari
- Panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro
- Immersive Maasai cultural experiences
- A photographer’s paradise with golden plains, wetlands and dramatic skies
