Meru targets global tourists with new eco-lodge

The Meru county government has announced plans to build a new eco-lodge near the Igombe Crater in the Nyambene National Reserve. Governor Peter Munya said the county would partner with the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) to implement the plan that is expected to boost the county’s global tourism ranking.

Speaking during a tour of the 640-km square community-run conservancy, Mr Munya said the planned eco-lodge would safeguard the entire habitat, enabling wild animals roam freely without risk of land depletion or poaching. “We are seeking the help of KWS in the mapping and assessment survey of the most suitable area where the lodge will be placed,” said Mr Munya.

“It is with this commitment that we want to create a safe haven for the various species of animals, including elephants, rhinos and buffalos that reside here.”

The governor said once the lodge is established, it would not only be a source of wealth but would also create jobs for the locals. He said the county had resolved to use its assets to become the prime destination for local and international tourists in the Mt Kenya circuit.

The Igombe Crater, also known as Magatu, attracts hundreds of high-end domestic tourists. It has featured on “Africa from the Air” in The Telegraph’s Travel Magazine.

“It is with this in mind that the county government plans to establish the lodge near this great landscape. Nyambene also teems with wildlife and this will culminate into promoting local and national pride in this iconic area,” said the governor.

Already, the county government has employed and posted 30 rangers to the conservancy to address cases of human-wildlife conflict.
But plans to adopt and develop the conservancy are facing a setback after a section of residents went to court last week to protest the gazettement of the national reserve.

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