Investors and beneficiaries of the Maasai Mara ecosystem have signed a 32-year lease certificate in line with the Maasai Mara Management Plan.
Narok County Governor Patrick Ntutu who witnessed the lease signing said the county government has established standard registered leases to protect both the beneficiaries and investors.
“We are issuing a 33-year lease certificate to the beneficiaries and a 32-year lease certificate to the investors. We are nearly finishing with this exercise, as 99 per cent of the lease agreements have already been signed,” he said.
Governor Ntutu reiterated that his administration was conscious of the fact that the locals, investors and county government could reap optimum benefits from the Mara as a natural resource, only if we conserve and protect and manage it effectively for posterity.
“Effective management of the Maasai Mara has been a key focus of my administration. Over the past year, we have put in place key management plans that are revolutionizing operations at the reserve where the Maasai Mara Management Plan is one of them,” he continued.
The Governor spoke at Keekorok Lodge at the Maasai Mara where residents gathered to witness the signing of the leases.
Ntutu underscored that his government was improving the infrastructure in the Mara including roads, bridges and the airstrip to make the Mara a self-sustaining ecosystem.
At the same time, the Governor revealed that plans to set up a modern tourism college at the game reserve were on top gear.
The Governor was joined by a host of Members of County Assembly (MCA), Maasai Mara Wildlife Conservancy Association (MMWCA) Manager Daniel Sopia, County Secretary Mayian Tuya, County Attorney Allan Meingati and County Executive Members.
The world famous National reserve attracts millions of local and foreign tourists every year and is the key source of income of the Narok County Government generating over Sh. 3 billion.
By Ann Salaton
