Gazettement of Amboseli National Park transfer to Kajiado County marks a historic milestone

 

A new chapter in Kenya’s conservation and devolution history has been written following the official gazettement of the Deed of Transfer of Amboseli National Park to the County Government of Kajiado. The move, which formally places the world-renowned park under county management, has been hailed as a landmark achievement for the Maa Nation and a victory for local governance.

Kajiado County Woman Representative Hon. Leah Sankaire expressed profound satisfaction and optimism over the development, describing it as a “historic and long-awaited moment.”

“Finally, it has happened! I am delighted that the Deed of Transfer of Amboseli National Park to the County Government of Kajiado has officially been gazetted,” said Hon. Sankaire. “This marks a transformative milestone that will greatly enhance our region’s economic prospects and address one of the historical injustices faced by our community.”

The gazettement, which comes just days before the 3rd Edition of the Maa Cultural and Tourism Festival slated for November 4–9, 2025, is seen as a symbolic gesture of cultural pride and progress among the Maa people. The festival, a celebration of Maasai heritage and tourism, is expected to draw local and international visitors, further boosting the county’s profile as a premier cultural and conservation destination.

Hon. Sankaire extended her gratitude to H.E. President Dr. William Samoei Ruto for his leadership in facilitating the transfer, lauding the move as a demonstration of the national government’s commitment to devolution, equitable resource sharing, and community empowerment.

“This is a testament to the President’s visionary leadership and dedication to ensuring that local communities benefit directly from the natural resources within their regions,” she noted.

The transfer of Amboseli National Park — a globally recognized wildlife sanctuary famous for its elephant populations and breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro — has been a subject of debate for decades, with local leaders advocating for greater community involvement in its management and benefits.

With the gazettement now in effect, Kajiado County is poised to assume full administrative responsibility for the park’s operations, revenue management, and conservation policies — a development expected to stimulate local economic growth while preserving Amboseli’s ecological integrity.

As the county prepares for the upcoming Maa Cultural and Tourism Festival, the timing of the transfer is being celebrated as both a symbolic and practical step toward realizing the long-held aspirations of the Maa community.