Gideon joins tourists to witness Mara spectacle

Baringo Senator Gideon Moi witnesses the annual wildebeest migration at Maasai Mara. [Kipsang Joseph, Standard]

Baringo Senator Gideon Moi was among hundreds of local tourists who flocked to world famous Masai Mara Game Reserve to witness the spectacular wildebeest migration.

“I am here with my family to enjoy the very best and Kenya’s gift to the world – the Eighth Wonder of the world. Kenyans should visit these destinations to savour the beauty while supporting domestic tourism during the pandemic period,” Senator Gideon said during his visit yesterday.

This year’s migration is said to have been one of the most spectacular in years following the fully recharged River Mara.

“With River Mara fully recharged following heavy rains and abundance of grass, the migration is spectacular this year unlike previous years when water volumes were low. Covid-19 protocols are also strictly being observed to ensure visitors’ safety,” Narok Governor Samuel Tunai said.

Last week, Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Najib Balala reassured tourists of safety while also noting that the opening up of tourism destinations has re-awaken the balance between lives and livelihoods.

He also confirmed that by mid-August, over 2 million wildebeests had crossed over from Tanzania’s Serengeti to Masai Mara.

Iconic athlete Eliud Kipchoge, who is also Magical Kenya ambassador, was among tourists who visited Mara last week to drum support for domestic tourism.

In the Mara, tourists are encouraged to stick to health protocols that include wearing of masks, observing social distance and sanitising.

According to Kenya Wildlife Service, Covid-19 has dealt a blow to tourism, with number of visitors dropping by 76 percent. Non-resident visitations to the parks dropped by 98 per cent following suspension of flights to contain the pandemic.

The famous Masai Mara, which is also regarded as the cradle of mankind as well as Africa’s greatest wildlife reserve, could soon join the list of Unesco World Heritage sites.