The Maasai community has announced a landmark donation of one million acres of land to support wildlife conservation and enhance connectivity around Amboseli National Park in Kajiado County. The move follows President William Ruto’s decision to transfer the management of the iconic park from the national government to the County Government of Kajiado.
According to Gazette Notice No. 15230, the county is mandated to encourage local communities to set aside land for wildlife corridors, dispersal areas, and conservancies, ensuring the park’s long-term viability.
Speaking during the third Maa Festival in Amboseli, Governor Joseph Ole Lenku hailed the donation as a historic gesture that reflects the community’s commitment to protecting wildlife and promoting tourism. He described the event as a “double celebration and a game-changer”, applauding President Ruto for addressing what he termed a long-standing historical injustice.
Governor Lenku revealed that Kajiado County plans to establish a semi-autonomous body to oversee a smooth transition and guarantee community involvement in managing the park. “We now want to create a third-generation park that integrates wildlife, environment, and community livelihoods,” he stated.
He further noted that the Maasai community had for decades petitioned successive governments to return Amboseli, which was originally part of their ancestral land. “This is a moment of truth and justice. The return of Amboseli is like regaining independence,” an emotional Lenku said, adding that many families have suffered losses due to human–wildlife conflict.
The Governor emphasized that the transfer would allow the Maasai to benefit directly from tourism revenue and conservation initiatives. “Our wildlife is our heritage,” he declared, noting that the President’s action has finally corrected a historical wrong that generations of Maasai have endured.
