By Neville Oduor
The Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife, led by Cabinet Secretary Hon. Rebecca Miano, has rolled out immediate measures to address congestion at Nairobi National Park following a surge in visitor numbers.
The announcement comes after reports of extended waiting times at the park’s entry gates over the weekend, which frustrated many visitors.
“We understand that extended waiting times at entry gates over the weekend may have impacted your experience,” CS Miano said, acknowledging the inconvenience.
She attributed the increased footfall to Kenya’s rising status as a premier tourism and conference destination, fueled by successful marketing campaigns and international meetings in Nairobi.
“The surge in visitor numbers is a testament to Kenya’s growing appeal,” Miano noted, emphasizing the government’s commitment to enhancing visitor experiences.
To tackle the issue, the ministry has introduced several improvements.
Dedicated lanes for prepaid ticket holders will now expedite entry, while the East Gate (off Mombasa Road) and Mbagathi Gate (near Multimedia University on Magadi Road) are fully operational to reduce congestion.
Additionally, plans for a new Southern Bypass entry are in the works to further improve access.
Miano encouraged visitors to use the eCitizen platform for prepaid ticketing, highlighting its success.
“Over 60% of visitors on Sunday used this convenient option! This is a step forward in our shared journey toward smarter, faster, and more enjoyable park access,” The CS noted.
The measures align with broader efforts to bolster Kenya’s tourism sector, a key economic driver.
Nairobi National Park, the only national park within a capital city globally, offers a unique urban safari experience against the city’s skyline.
“We’re thrilled to see so many of you embracing our prepaid ticketing system,” Miano added, urging patience as the ministry works to ensure seamless visits.
“We can’t wait to welcome you back to Nairobi National Park, where your journey into Kenya’s natural beauty begins,” the CS concluded.
These enhancements aim to balance conservation with a world-class visitor experience.