Cabinet Secretary Tourism and Wildlife Rebecca Miano has announced a series of new measures aimed at strengthening visitor safety and wildlife protection in the Maasai Mara, following widely circulated footage showing tourists outside their vehicles during the annual wildebeest migration.

The incident, which occurred at the flooded Purungat Gate, drew widespread concern after images showed visitors standing in close proximity to wildlife. According to the County Government of Narok, tourists had alighted from their vans while waiting for floodwaters to recede. While the clarification provided important context, the Ministry noted that the images risk undermining Kenya’s global reputation for conservation and sustainable tourism.

Miano who responded to the trending video while attending the TICA9 in Japan emphasized that Kenya remains a global leader in conservation and must uphold the highest standards in managing one of the world’s most iconic natural spectacles.

“Kenya’s tourism future is anchored in our ability to protect both visitors and wildlife. We must act decisively to preserve the Maasai Mara’s integrity, uphold visitor safety, and demonstrate Kenya’s unwavering commitment to conservation,” Miano said in a statement.

To prevent similar incidents, the Ministry has outlined a four-point action plan in collaboration with Narok County and the Kenya Wildlife Service. Key measures include stricter enforcement of park rules, increased ranger presence at sensitive crossing points, and clearer accountability for tour operators. Drivers, guides, or companies that allow visitors to disregard regulations will face disciplinary or legal action.

Visitor safety and wildlife protection will remain the top priority, with the government stressing that preventing dangerous interactions safeguards both lives and conservation integrity. Additionally, joint oversight efforts will be strengthened, with harmonized visitor management systems and awareness campaigns targeting both tourists and operators. New signage and educational materials will be introduced at key gates and migration viewing areas.

The wildebeest migration, often described as the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors annually and is a cornerstone of Kenya’s tourism industry. The Ministry underscored that maintaining the reserve’s global reputation requires cooperation between government authorities, tour operators, and visitors themselves.

“As custodians of one of the world’s greatest natural spectacles, we all share a responsibility to ensure the Maasai Mara remains a symbol of Kenya’s leadership in conservation,” Miano added.