Tourism Regulatory Authority, has dismissed claims that foreign tourists were being held at a lodge inside the Maasai Mara National Reserve, saying all visitors are safe and that the situation being reported is linked to a labour dispute and not any security threat.
The Authority said it had worked with national security and local administration teams to verify the reports, all of which confirmed there is no hostage situation and no danger to tourists within the Maasai Mara ecosystem or other parts of the country. It added that visitors at the lodge continue with their travel plans without interruption.
According to the regulator, the disruption at the facility is connected to a long-running disagreement between management and staff that has escalated into industrial action affecting normal operations. It further noted that the matter is already in court and is being handled through legal procedures.
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TRA rejected the reports circulating in sections of the media and from the lodge management, saying they were misleading and had created unnecessary alarm.
“TRA issues this statement to categorically refute and correct false, alarmist, and misleading allegations circulating in sections of the media and in a public release issued by Muthu Keekorok Management Ltd alleging that tourists have been held hostage within the Maasai Mara National Reserve,” the statement said.
It added that no tourist has been restricted or placed in danger at any time.
“The Authority confirms that all tourists are safe, accounted for, and continue with their travel itineraries without restriction or disruption.”
The regulator also warned tourism and hospitality operators against sharing false or unverified information about safety or operations, noting that such conduct violates licensing rules under the Tourism (Enterprises) Regulations, 2025.
It said breaches could lead to investigations, compliance checks, penalties, suspension or cancellation of licences, and possible referral to other authorities where necessary.
TRA further urged media houses, tourism stakeholders, and the public to rely only on verified official communication to avoid spreading misinformation that could harm the country’s tourism reputation.
It said it will continue monitoring the situation and take appropriate action to protect stability and confidence in the sector.
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