By Ken Muthomi - Reporter
Kenya, April 24, 2026 - The Ministry of Tourism has refuted claims circulating through some media outlets alleging that some tourists have been taken hostage at the Maasai Mara National Reserve.
Tourism Regulatory Authority Director General Norbert Talam said on Friday that security agencies have undertaken investigations that have confirmed that there is no security incident that has compromised the safety and freedom of tourists within the Maasai Mara.
Talam has encouraged Kenyans to disregard such claims, dismissing them as false, alarmist, and meant to tarnish the country’s tourism image.
“Following verification undertaken in coordination with relevant national security and administrative agencies, the Authority confirms that no tourists have been held hostage at any facility within the Maasai Mara National Reserve or elsewhere in the country,” Talam said.
“All tourists are safe, accounted for, and continue with their travel itineraries without restriction or disruption,” he added.
The clarification follows media reports and a public statement by Muthu Keekorok Management Ltd alleging that tourists were being held within the reserve.
The authority has, however, clarified that the situation at Muthu Keekorok Lodge is a result of a long-standing labour dispute between the staff and the management. Talam has maintained that this has in no way posed security threats to guests, and the dispute is currently before the court.
“The authority notes with grave concern the publication of exaggerated and unverified claims, including references to a ‘hostage situation’ and a ‘security crisis,’ which are factually incorrect, reckless, and prejudicial, and which improperly seek to elevate a labour dispute into a national security concern,” Talam stated.
Talam has further confirmed that the authority has kick-started a compliance review of the lodge’s public communications for appropriate legal action.
The authority has cautioned that it will take regulatory action against any tourist operators across the country who will be caught spreading false or misleading information to the public in line with the Tourism (Enterprises) Regulations, 2025.
“The government of Kenya continues to uphold robust safety, security, and regulatory standards across all tourism destinations. Visitors to Kenya are assured that the country remains safe, secure, and fully operational as a premier global tourism destination,” the statement read.
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