KWS Clarifies Relocation of Nairobi Animal Orphanage and Forest Destruction Claims

The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has refuted claims circulating online that the relocation of the Nairobi Animal Orphanage is destroying the upland forest within Nairobi National Park.

The allegations were made by a group calling itself Friends of Nairobi National Park (FoNNaP).

KWS described the claims as “misleading, unfounded, and inflammatory” and stressed that the relocation project is a carefully planned initiative focused on wildlife conservation, animal welfare, and enhancing visitor experience.

“Established in 1964, the Nairobi Animal Orphanage has played a central role in rescuing and rehabilitating wildlife in distress for over 60 years. However, rising visitor numbers, increased wildlife rescue demand, and evolving international animal welfare standards mean the current facility no longer meets modern requirements,” KWS said.

Legal and Policy Compliance

KWS confirmed that the relocation project fully adheres to national laws. An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) was conducted under the Environmental Management and Coordination Act (EMCA), and a comprehensive report was submitted to the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA).

Stakeholders participated in a public workshop on 2 October 2025. Following a review, NEMA approved the project and issued an EIA Licence (Ref: NEMA/ENVIS/CPR/LIC-0940) on 3 December 2025.

“The relocation aligns with the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act, 2013, which mandates KWS to conserve wildlife while upholding high standards of animal welfare,” KWS added.

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Rationale for Relocation

The relocation, initially conceptualized in 2013, aims to:

• Align with international animal welfare standards, including those of the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
• Provide larger, more natural, and humane enclosures.
• Reduce congestion and improve visitor safety.
• Enhance efficiency in wildlife rescue, treatment, and rehabilitation.

Key Features of the New Facility

The upgraded orphanage will include:

• Spacious animal enclosures meeting modern welfare standards.
• A fully equipped veterinary and treatment unit.
• A modern wildlife hospital with surgical capabilities.
• Quarantine and nursery facilities for rescued wildlife.
• Designated release areas to support rewilding efforts.
• Improved visitor amenities, including walkways, rest areas, and sanitation.
• Sustainable waste management systems.
• Outdoor learning spaces and interpretation centres for conservation education.

Also Read: KWS Issues Advisory to All National Park Visitors Amid Heavy Rain

“The existing orphanage site will be restored and rewilded, reinforcing the ecological integrity of Nairobi National Park. The new facility will also create over 500 direct jobs and additional opportunities for service providers.” KWS stated.

The relocation integrates the orphanage with Nairobi’s broader tourism offerings, including proximity to the Bomas International Convention Centre, improving accessibility, visitor management, and supporting Kenya’s position as a global conservation and tourism leader.

KWS concluded that the project represents a strategic investment in animal welfare, environmental sustainability, conservation education, and job creation while reaffirming its commitment to conserving wildlife for current and future generations.

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KWS dismisses claims of “forest destruction” in Nairobi National Park as misleading. PHOTO/ KWS X