Kenyans Embrace Jamhuri Day, Flood Free National Parks in Record Numbers

• The government waived fees for Kenyan citizens interested in visiting national parks on Jamhuri Day
• This saw vast numbers of locals flock to different national parks across the country, leaving netizens with mixed reactions
• Some social media users commended those who utilised the opportunities, while others laughed at how people love freebies

Videos of Kenyans who flocked to national parks after the government abolished charges for December 12 have been going viral on social media.

The Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua announced free entry to all national parks and museums for Kenyan citizens on Jamhuri Day.

Mutua said the initiative was part of celebrating Kenya’s 60 years as a republic and encouraged Kenyans to enjoy the country’s breathtaking landscapes and wildlife, urging patience if facilities reached full capacity.

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Inside Kenyans' Jamhuri Day Park Celebrations

However, from videos doing rounds, many Kenyans took the opportunity to visit the national parks with friends and loved ones.

For instance, a TikTok video shared by Waithaka Wamae showed many people lining up to get access to the National Museum.

The mix had children who were excited to get into the park, with parents who were eager to give their kids a tour.

At the Nairobi National Park, crowds lined up on the roadside, patiently waiting to access the prestigious home that houses many wildlife.

Watch the video below:

Here is the second video:

Netizens react to fully-packed parks

However, many netizens noted how most people love freebies, while some asked the government to consider lowering the fees so that many could visit the reserves.

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Here are some of the comments from social media users:

@shelmie said:

"Understanding girlfriends walipelekwa out."

@Dan Macharia said:

"I am sure even the animals hid today from being shocked by watu wengi."

@Caritritu said:

"Not opportunistic. This should be an eye opener to the government. Instead of reducing prices they are busy increasing. Maybe reducing will increase visits."

@stranger said:

"Unasema understanding girlfriends until you spot your mum and dad in the line."

@Achi said:

"For some people, this was actually the best opportunity for them to create memories with their families."

@shesh said:

"Happy to see people utilise the opportunity."

@wakiliog said:

"Lakini si Wakenya wanapenda vitu za bure. But it shows you know how life is hard for many Kenyans."

FG says national parks are safe

Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that the federal government has guaranteed Nigerians the complete safety of the Gashaka Gumti National Park.

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Dr. Ibrahim Goni, the Conservator General of the National Park Service, affirmed this assurance on behalf of the government.

This statement came in response to a media report suggesting bandits had seized the park.

Source: TUKO.co.ke