Economy

Hoteliers oppose Mara River new camp

masai mara

Maasai Mara game reserve. FILE PHOTO | NMG

The National Environment Management Authority (Nema) is on the spot for approving construction of a luxury camp on the banks of Mara river.

A section of hoteliers have protested the move claiming that the Rafiki camp being set up by a German couple at the Enkutoto conservancy adjacent to the Maasai Mara game reserve is a threat to conservation.

In a joint statement signed by Camp Olonana sanctuary and Tangulia camp owners, the hoteliers said the camp is built on riparian areas and in close proximity to the two camps.

“This facility is being built 400 metres away from our camps, apart from being in a riparian area. It is congesting the conservation area and blocking a wildlife corridor and blocking them from accessing water in the river,” read the statement in part.

READ: Concerns arise over fenced land bordering Maasai Mara

But in a phone interview, Narok County Nema director Patrick Lekenit said the project has passed all required procedures and his office cannot stop it.

“There are supremacy battles between the hoteliers, and the two camps complaining seem to fear competition from the facility that is being constructed,” said Mr Lekenit.

He said he has toured the site and has spoken to both parties and will today hold a joint stakeholders meeting.