Tourism CS Najib Balala demands closure of hotel for blocking wildbeest migratory corridor at Mara River

Tourism Cabinet Secretary Najib Balala on Tuesday demanded action on a tourist camp that has been built beside the Mara River, blocking the Wildebeest crossing.

His statement came just a day after a series of un-dated viral videos showed people believed to be employees of the camp forcing thousands of animals to turn back and use an alternative route.

“I have discussed with Narok County Governor SamuelTunai, about the camp built beside the Mara River, blocking the Wildebeest crossing. Its very disturbing and we expect the Governor to take action and have the camp removed!” Balala said.

CS Balala also reiterated on the need for Kenya to have a Maasai Mara National Reserve Management Plan that will enhance biodiversity and protect wildlife migratory corridors from greed.

“I have also insisted that we need a Maasai Mara National Reserve Management Plan, that will not only enhance biodiversity, but also protect our wildlife migratory corridors, from greed!” CS Balala added.

A series of viral videos had showed the animals attempting to cross the river only to encounter people on the crossing path.

I have discussed with Narok County Governor @SamuelTunai, about the camp built beside the Mara River, blocking the Wildebeest crossing. Its very disturbing and we expect the Governor to take action and have the camp removed! pic.twitter.com/2jLHQHb7lV

— Najib Balala (@tunajibu) September 8, 2020

There were fears of a stampede after people believed to be employees of the resort were seen chasing away the docile animals.

The videos caused outrage with Kenyans wondering how the camp was constructed smack in the middle of the migratory corridor under NEMA’s watch.

The wildebeest migration- a wonder of the world- happens every year and sees over 2 million animals migrate from the Mara to Tanzania and then back in a perpertual search of food and water.

Nature lovers have called it the ‘greatest show on earth’ and attracts thousands of tourists from all over the world.