27/06/2025
The Tour Operators Society of Kenya (TOSK) has strongly condemned a reckless proposal by COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli to destroy Nairobi National Park for urban expansion.
This is not progress but an economic sabotage, ecological su***de and cultural erasure.
Why This Matters
For nearly 80 years, Nairobi National Park has stood as a beacon of hope:
The only capital city in the world with a national park
A global symbol of sustainable urban development
Home to over 100 mammal species & 400+ bird species
A key driver of Kenya’s tourism industry, which contributes 10% to GDP and employs over 1.5 million Kenyans
What We Stand to Lose:
Billions in tourism revenue
70% of safari itineraries that begin or end in Nairobi
Thousands of jobs: tour guides, hotels, local businesses
Our global conservation reputation
Nairobi’s clean air, climate regulation & water sources
Sacred Maasai lands & cultural sites
Wildlife that cannot survive in Maasai Mara due to ecosystem incompatibility
This isn’t just a bad idea but it would be the largest wildlife massacre in Kenya’s history, with up to 60% mortality in a forced relocation.
A Violation of Everything We Stand For:
Mr. Atwoli’s proposal violates:
• The Constitution of Kenya (Articles 42, 69, 71)
• The Wildlife Conservation and Management Act
• UN World Tourism Organization guidelines
• International conservation commitments Kenya has proudly upheld
Nairobi National Park is not an obstacle but it’s an opportunity. It is our global identity, our pride, our legacy.
WE DEMAND ACTION:
Immediate retraction of the proposal
Government commitment to permanently protect the park
Legislation to prevent future threats
Sustainable urban planning that respects nature, culture, and livelihoods
