In a landmark decision for conservation, the Kenyan government has officially gazetted the sprawling Mukogodo Forest as the nation’s newest national park, granting the critical ecosystem the highest level of protection. The 45,000-acre forest, a vital component of the larger Ewaso Ng’iro ecosystem, is a key dispersal area for wildlife from neighboring conservancies and a crucial water tower for northern Kenya. The upgrade from a forest reserve to a national park signifies a major commitment to securing this biodiversity-rich landscape, which is home to endangered species such as the African wild dog, leopard, and over 200 species of birds, while also promising to unlock new economic potential through eco-tourism.
The gazettement follows years of collaborative effort between the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), the local Maasai community, and conservation organizations. A central pillar of the new park’s management plan is a shared governance model that ensures the indigenous Maasai community, which has historically used the forest for cultural practices and livestock grazing, will benefit directly from its protection. The agreement includes provisions for controlled cultural access and establishes a revenue-sharing scheme from park entrance fees, which will fund community projects such as schools, health clinics, and water infrastructure. This approach aims to align the community’s economic interests with the long-term health of the forest, transforming them from passive residents into active guardians of the ecosystem.
The long-term implications of establishing Mukogodo National Park are profound, creating a vital protected corridor that links the Laikipia Plateau to the greater Samburu ecosystem. This connectivity is essential for the genetic health and seasonal migration of large mammal populations, particularly elephants. For Kenya, the new park enhances the nation’s conservation portfolio, offering a new, unique destination for tourists seeking pristine wilderness beyond the well-trodden circuits. The successful community-centric model pioneered here is expected to serve as a blueprint for future conservation efforts across Kenya, demonstrating that protecting natural heritage and empowering local populations are not mutually exclusive goals, but are in fact the foundation for a sustainable future.