Ruto Greenlights Hotel Projects in Meru National Park Days After Ngong Forest Uproar
Just days after the government suspended a controversial eco-tourism project in Nairobi’s Ngong Road Forest, President William Ruto has given the green light for the construction of three hotels inside Meru National Park. The decision has reignited debate over the increasing commercialisation of Kenya’s protected natural spaces.
Speaking in Meru during the launch of the Human-Wildlife Conflict Compensation Fund, President Ruto confirmed that the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) had issued licences to allow the development of modern hotel infrastructure within the national park. The initiative, he said, is designed to attract more tourists and stimulate the local economy.
“KWS and our ministry have handed out licences for the construction of three hotels within Meru National Park. Local investors should also be included in the investment plans for the park,” Ruto stated.
The president further emphasized the importance of ensuring that communities living near the park benefit from tourism revenues. He directed government agencies to work closely with local investors to ensure equitable participation.
Ruto was accompanied by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Tourism CS Rebecca Miano, Meru Governor Isaac Mutuma, and senior officials from KWS.
To support tourism access, Ruto also announced a Ksh250 million allocation for the renovation of the Meru Mulika Airstrip. However, he acknowledged that the funds might not be sufficient and pledged additional resources in the near future.
“We have released Ksh250 million to renovate Meru Mulika Airstrip so that it can attract tourists. I know that may not be enough, but we are looking for additional resources to unlock the tourism potential of this region,” Ruto said.
This development follows the May 17 decision by the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) to suspend the proposed construction of a luxury eco-camp in Ngong Road Forest after a public outcry. The move came after the Green Belt Movement raised concerns about environmental degradation and demanded transparency regarding the identity of the private developers involved.
Environmental advocates had argued that the Ngong Forest project risked setting a precedent for encroachment on protected green spaces, which are vital for biodiversity, water catchment, and carbon storage.
While the Meru project is being pitched as a tourism and economic boost, it remains to be seen how conservationists and the public will respond, especially in light of recent scrutiny on forest and park land allocations.
As Kenya seeks to grow its tourism sector, the government faces increasing pressure to strike a balance between development and environmental preservation.
In other news:Man Electrocuted While Attempting Illegal Power Connection in Rarieda
Ruto Greenlights Hotel Projects in Meru National Park Days After Ngong Forest Uproar