The move forms part of a week-long series of activities set to run from September 22 to 29 in honour of the annual event.
Kenyans at the end of this month will enjoy a full day of visits to the country’s national parks free of charge following the Cabinet’s approval on the same on Tuesday, September 17.
According to a despatch from the first broad-based Cabinet meeting chaired by President William Ruto, the move forms part of a week-long series of activities set to run from September 22 to 29 in honour of the annual event.
As such, and to promote tourism and celebrate the United Nations World Tourism Day, entry to the national parks will be free of charge on Saturday, September 28.
President William Ruto leads the first broad-based Cabinet meeting on September 17, 2024. /PCS
“Cabinet approved the calendar of activities to mark the United Nations World Tourism Day/Week in September 2024. The week-long event, running from 22nd September to 29th, will include free entry to all parks on 28th September 2024,” read the despatch in part.
The move is expected to draw both local and international visitors, strengthening Kenya’s position as a leading tourist destination.
It is worth noting that the last time access to all national parks in the country was made free of charge was during Jamhuri Day on December 12, 2023, which allowed Kenyans to enjoy the pristine wildlife and nature in all forms as the country marked 60 years since gaining independence.
“Kenya boasts breathtaking landscapes, from vast savannahs to pristine beaches and majestic mountains, showcasing the country’s unparalleled beauty. Our rich flora and fauna stand as a testament to our national pride and conservation efforts, inviting visitors to revel in these natural wonders.
“In commemorating our 60th year of independence, the Government proudly announces free entry for Kenyan citizens to all national parks and museums on Jamhuri Day, December 12, 2023. This initiative aligns with our collective pride in being Kenyan and our desire for everyone to relish the gifts bestowed upon us by nature,” announced Labour Cabinet Secretary (CS) Alfred Mutua during his tenure at the helm of the Ministry of Tourism.
The CS added that the free entry complimentary access encompassed marine parks, the Safari walk, and animal orphanages, from 6 am to 6 pm on that day. According to Mutua, however, proof of identification was to be required for Kenyan citizens such as the ID, a rule that also applied to children accompanying parents or guardians who possessed identification proof.
Kenyans were further asked to ensure that services ran smoothly across the national parks, which was to make work easier for the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS).
World Tourism Day has been held on September 27 each year since 1980. The date marks the anniversary of adopting the Statutes of the Organisation in 1970, paving the way for establishing UN Tourism five years later.
In Kenya, the Kisumu government won the bid to host this year’s Kenya Tourism Week and United Nations World Tourism Day which has been themed “Tourism and Peace”
It celebrates tourism’s role in fostering social, political, cultural and economic development. Kisumu will take centre stage as it showcases its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes and tourist attractions.
The event will feature peace caravans, environmental conservation, capacity-building, marathon races, charity walks, football matches, beach events, and cultural festivals.
Networking gala dinners, exhibitions, youth-focused programmes and award ceremonies recognising achievements have also been lined up by the organisers.
