This archive report was first published on 10 July 2021.
Published on July 10, 2021, data from the Ministry of Tourism shows that the sector earned Ksh163.5 billion in 2019 and is projected to grow by 1% in 2020.
However, international visitors fell to fewer than 500,000 in the first 10 months of 2020, resulting in a loss of Ksh100 billion compared to 1.7 million in the same period in 2019.
Maasai Mara's Economic Significance ¶
Maasai Mara is a vital contributor to Narok's economy, generating over 60% of its revenue from wildlife tourism, with the famous Maasai Mara Game Reserve being a major draw.
The reserve is renowned for its spectacular wildebeest migration, which has been classified as one of the eight natural wonders of the world.
The Great Migration ¶
Every year, from July to September, large herds of wildebeest and zebras migrate from Serengeti National Park in Tanzania to Maasai Mara and back in search of pasture and water, traveling over 800 kilometers.
This year's grand crossing began on July 5, with millions of wildebeest crossing the River Mara, oblivious to the danger lurking in the waters.
The tourism industry contributes 10% to Kenya's economic output and employs over 2 million people.
Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the tourism sector is slowly recovering, with tourists starting to arrive at Maasai Mara Game Reserve to witness the wildebeest migration.
Mr. James Chege, General Manager of Kichwa Tembo and Bateleur camps, is hopeful that the tourism sector will continue to recover, with the wildebeest migration providing a much-needed boost.
