The Narok County Government has warned some tour guides caught on camera abetting the harassment of cheetahs by tourists that they risk being expelled from the Maasai Mara National Reserve.
The video depicted tour guides driving tour trucks too close to the cheetahs at the behest of the tourists, violating the reserve's rules and guidelines. The cheetahs were chasing wildebeests in the expansive reserve.
In a statement issued on Monday, August 2, the county government revealed that the tour guides have already been charged in court and reprimanded by the reserve's management for absconding their duty.
According to the statement seen by Kenyans.co.ke, the Patrick Ntutu-led government further pointed out that the Chief Warden at the globally acclaimed destination has already been directed to establish a cheetah protection and monitoring unit to complement the work of the Animal Harassment Unit (AAHU).
“This is an illegal and undesirable act from the tour/driver guides and guest behavior and the County Government of Narok regrets this unfortunate situation happening while we are implementing the first phase of the Maasai Mara National reserve management plan,” the statement read in part.
The County Government was forced to address the viral clip after a section of Kenyans called out the visiting tourists for their actions.
A large section of Kenyans faulted the tourists and tour guides for the blatant action observing that the move to interrupt the cheetahs in their natural habitat was uncalled for.
Following the incident, the county government directed visitors to observe a 25-metre distance from all animals always.
The devolved unit also advised tourists to maintain a 100-meter distance from ongoing wildlife viewings if there are already five vehicles present. Visitors were advised to wait for the other tourists to finish their viewing before approaching the area themselves.
The devolved unit also commended all users who abide by the rules of the reserve and invited them to join the campaign as Safari Etiquette champions.
In 2014, Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) addressed a concerning issue along the Nakuru- Nairobi Highway where travelers often stopped to feed baboons with drinks and bananas.
The then KWS Director, William Kiprono, issued a stern warning, urging Kenyans not to give food or drinks to wild animals, stating the practice posed health risks to the baboons and potential harm to the people involved.
