Kenya Tourism Federation Raises Concerns Over New KWS Park Fee Payment System
The Kenya Tourism Federation (KTF), which represents the private sector associations in Kenya’s tourism industry, has raised serious concerns about the new park fee payment system introduced by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS).
The Federation says the new platform was rolled out without adequate consultation with industry stakeholders, creating financial and operational challenges for tour operators, travel agents, and park visitors.
KTF Chairman Fred Odek said the changes have disrupted normal business operations and could harm Kenya’s reputation as a global tourism destination.
“The rollout of the new KWS park payment system has created unnecessary financial strain and uncertainty for operators who had already priced and contracted tours under the previous arrangements. The additional fees and limited payment options translate to unbudgeted losses and threaten existing contracts with our international partners,” said Mr. Odek.
Under the new system, only M-PESA and Visa card payments are accepted, with the bank transfer option removed. This has complicated large group transactions that previously relied on bank transfers. Additionally, KWS has introduced an 8.5 percent processing fee for card payments, a rate that KTF says is unusually high compared to other government platforms.
The Federation has also questioned the exchange rate used by KWS, which stands at KSH 135 per USD, higher than the Central Bank of Kenya official rate of about KSH 129.50. This has increased park entry costs for both domestic and international tourists.
KTF is urging the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife and KWS to take the following actions:
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Reinstate all previous payment options, including bank transfers.
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Review and reduce the 8.5 percent card processing fee to align with standard rates.
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Adjust the USD–KSH exchange rate to match the Central Bank of Kenya rate.
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Commit to regular consultations with the tourism private sector before implementing future changes.
Mr. Odek emphasized that open dialogue and collaboration are essential to sustain Kenya’s tourism industry.
“KTF remains committed to working closely with KWS and the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife to ensure that Kenya’s tourism industry remains sustainable, fair, and competitive,” he added.
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