Residents of North Imenti today held a public participation forum on conservation fees in a bid to enhance sustainability of parks and support communities affected by human wildlife conflict.
The review also introduced exemptions for vulnerable groups including children below five years, senior citizens over 70 years, and persons with disabilities who will now access the park free of charge.
The forum was held at the North Imenti CDF Office.
John Wambua, Senior Assistant Director at the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) for the Eastern said the review of conservation fees was long overdue.
“We are here today to review the conservation fees which have remained unchanged for the last 18 years. This review is necessary to enhance the sustainability of our parks and support communities affected by human wildlife conflict,” said Wambua.
Among the proposed changes, children aged five years and below, elderly persons above 70 years, and people living with disabilities will be exempted from paying park entrance fees.
“We have introduced exemptions for vulnerable groups. Children below five years, senior citizens over 70, and persons with disabilities will now access the park free of charge,” he said.
He further stated that the revised fees would contribute to wildlife conservation efforts and benefit local communities.
“The increment will allow us to compensate those affected by wildlife, and also create employment opportunities for our youth,” he added.
