TRA warns tour operators against off-road driving in conservation areas

Tourism Regulatory Authority director general Nobert Talam / HANDOUT

The Tourism Regulatory Authority has warned tour operators and driver-guides engaging in off-road driving within conservation areas, terming the practice illegal and environmentally harmful.

The Authority said it has recently received multiple complaints and observed social media reports indicating that some Tourist Service Vehicles have been involved in off-road driving and other prohibited activities inside protected areas.

TRA, which is established under Section 4 of the Tourism Act, is mandated to regulate tourism activities and services in Kenya in line with the national tourism strategy.

In a statement on Wednesday, TRA director general Norbert Talam noted that it has operationalised a Code of Practice and Sustainability Standards requiring all licensed tour operators to uphold responsible, ethical and sustainable tourism practices.

Talam warned that off-road driving poses serious risks to visitor safety and causes significant environmental degradation that undermines ongoing conservation efforts.

“The Tourism Regulatory Authority wishes to reiterate that off-road driving and any conduct that contravenes conservation regulations and sustainability standards are strictly prohibited,” he said.

Talam added that it will continue working closely with wildlife conservation and protected area management agencies to monitor compliance and take decisive action against non-compliant operators, including possible blacklisting.

“Any tour operator, Tourist Service Vehicle provider, or driver-guide found to be in violation of these requirements shall be subject to regulatory enforcement actions, including suspension or cancellation of tourist licenses.”

The Authority reaffirmed its commitment to promoting sustainable tourism and safeguarding Kenya’s natural heritage, urging all players in the tourism sector to fully comply with applicable regulations and sustainability standards.

According to the Authority’s website, TRA oversees the registration, licensing and grading of all sustainable tourism and tourist-related activities and services, including cottages and private residences offering guest house services.

TRA also develops and implements, in consultation with relevant stakeholders, criteria for the standardisation and classification of tourism facilities and services to ensure quality and consistency across the sector.

The Authority works with the ministry responsible for education to develop and regulate tourism and hospitality curricula, examinations and certification.

Among its core functions, TRA develops and enforces a code of practice for the tourism sector and ensures the development and implementation of high-quality tourism services.

The regulator is also tasked with monitoring and assessing tourism activities and services to promote continuous improvement and adherence to sound sustainable tourism principles.

At the national level, TRA undertakes annual assessments and audits of tourism activities, measures and initiatives, and prepares and publishes the annual national tourism sector status report in consultation with the Cabinet Secretary and relevant lead agencies.

The Authority may also perform any other functions that are ancillary to the object and purpose for which it was established.