The management of Amboseli National Park has officially been transferred from the National Government to the County Government of Kajiado, as confirmed by Gazette Notice No. 15230 published in Gazette No. 7243.
The Deed of Transfer, dated October 14, 2025, formalizes the shift in administrative control, with the Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife representing the National Government and the Governor of Kajiado County signing on behalf of the devolved unit. The document affirms that all expressions within the agreement shall include successors and assigns, signaling a long-term institutional commitment to the new governance structure.
The journey toward devolved management of Amboseli began on November 14, 2024, when the Cabinet approved the transfer under Article 187 of the Constitution. This paved the way for the formal Deed of Transfer, signed on October 14, 2025, making it official. The gazettement marks the legal finalization of the handover, placing Amboseli National Park under the watch of the County Government of Kajiado.
This historic gazettement marks the end of years of advocacy by the Maa community, who have long sought greater control over the iconic park that lies within their ancestral lands. The transfer is expected to unlock new economic opportunities, enhance local conservation efforts, and address longstanding grievances over resource management and revenue allocation.
“I’m delighted that the Deed of Transfer of the Amboseli National Park to the County Government of Kajiado has finally been Gazetted.” Governor Joseph Ole Lenku welcomed the announcement with jubilation.
“There can be no better news for the Maa Nation than this milestone which will hugely transform the economic status of our people and correct one of our community’s historical injustices.” He added.
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Lenku thanked President William Ruto for his steadfast commitment in this cause, for ensuring that the management of Amboseli National Park is finally handed to the Kajiado County government.
The gazettement also sets a precedent for devolved environmental stewardship, aligning with Kenya’s broader constitutional vision of empowering counties to manage natural resources within their jurisdictions.
This gazettement comes only a few days before the 3rd Edition of the Maa Cultural and Tourism Festival, slated for November 4-9, 2025 at Amboseli National Park, Kimana gate.
By Masaki Enock
