By Gladys Burini, a renowned author, we are reminded that Kenya is an exceptional country blessed with an abundance of wildlife.
From the majestic Maasai Mara to other wildlife parks, thousands of tourists flock from around the world to catch a glimpse of the Big Five, including the rare northern white rhinos.
However, with global warming and rising temperatures, the future of Kenya's wildlife is uncertain. Riverbeds are drying up, pastures are becoming scarce, and the increasing risks to wildlife may lead to the emergence of 'misery tourism', where people visit poverty-stricken areas, including slums.
But why should we, as Kenyans, not take advantage of this great privilege? We have the opportunity to visit our own parks and share our tourism story, rather than relying on others to define our narrative.
As Burini aptly puts it, 'Tourism is not defined as and limited to going abroad. Being a local tourist is just as good.'
So, let us reclaim this narrative and visit our own parks, appreciating the beauty and wonder of Kenya's wildlife before it's too late.
