This archive report was first published on 19 July 2020.
On July 17, 2020, Narok county government announced the reopening of the Maasai Mara Game Reserve after four months of closure due to the Coronavirus pandemic.
The decision to reopen the reserve follows a directive from President Uhuru Kenyatta to reopen the air space as from August 1, 2020, paving the way for international travels.
County Governor Samuel Tunai emphasized the importance of reopening the reserve, stating, "The Maasai Mara game reserve is the backbone of our economy as a county, hence we have to put measures on how to reopen the game reserve but on strict measures to avert the possibility of Covid-19 spread in the game reserve."
As part of the reopening plan, every employee and visitor to the game reserve will be required to undergo a coronavirus test to be allowed in the park. The Kenya Medical Research Institution (KEMRI) has been given priority to enable a speedy reopening of the reserve.
Already, seven camps have reopened after 316 employees working in the camps were tested and found negative of Covid-19 and the camps fumigated. The camps that have reopened include Nabosho, Mara Serena, and Mara Simba lodge, which have conformed to the regulations laid down by the department of Health.
The governor also announced the resumption of business by a Chinese Company constructing the Narok sewerage system, which was closed after 22 Chinese workers tested positive for Covid-19. Among those who have recovered are the 22 Chinese workers.
County Governor Samuel Tunai reiterated that the public health department will continue with regular inspections at the game reserve to ensure high hygienic standards are adhered to.
"This is the season when the great wildebeest migration from the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania to Maasai Mara game reserve is happening. We expect to receive a number of foreign and local visitors during this season," he said.
As part of the county's efforts to fight the virus, 300 beds are being put up in a three-block building at the Ololulunga Sub County Hospital for Coronavirus patients, with one block expected to be launched next week. Additionally, 40 beds have been set aside for Covid-19 patients at the Narok County Referral Hospital.
