President William Ruto has defended the handing over of the Amboseli National Park to Kajiado County, terming the move as timely and for the larger good.

Speaking in Kajiado County on Saturday, November 8, 2025, during the 3rd Maa Cultural Festival, Ruto termed the development as a restoration of conservancy back to the community.

According to Ruto, returning the park to its original owners is key to addressing the neglect of the community in the running of the park, a development he claims led to the subdivision of ranches in the area.

He highlighted the Maa community’s long history of peaceful coexistence with wild animals as a factor in reversing the decree of injustice that had stayed for over five decades.

“I do not doubt that Amboseli will be better than it has been. This is the correct thing to do. The Maa have demonstrated that they can live harmoniously with wild animals, and they are great conservationists.

“I also congratulate you for helping us boost our tourism; it’s why it is just and correct to bring back the Amboseli to the people who know about wildlife and conservation,” he added.

Also watch: Lenku welcomes Cabinet approval of Amboseli park transfer to Kajiado County.

Presidential assurance

The president allayed fears that the directive would weaken conservation measures across the region, stressing that the Kenya Wildlife Service and other government agencies would ensure important services continue in the park.

“To doubters of this venture, nothing has been lost. In fact, everything has been gained. It is not a weakening of conversation, but a renewal. A conversation led by people lasts longer and heals deeper. Our stakeholders and the government are committed to protecting and fulfilling all international obligations. KWS will continue to provide services and ecological and technical oversight as they have in the past and as they do in all protected areas,” he added.

The development has been welcomed by the area leadership, with top government officials and local leaders lauding the president.

”For over 51 years, the question of why the Amboseli land, donated by the Maasai community of Kajiado, is in the hands of the national government and not in the hands of the rightful owners, the Maa of Kajiado, has been answered today,” Narok governor Patrick Ole Ntutu said.