KWS denies forest destruction claims as Nairobi Animal Orphanage moves to modern facility

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The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has dismissed social media claims that the Nairobi Animal Orphanage relocation is harming the upland forest in Nairobi National Park, calling them “misleading and unfounded.”

KWS says the move is a planned, lawful upgrade to improve animal welfare, rescue operations, visitor experience, and conservation education.

A six-decade legacy

Established in 1964, the orphanage has cared for wildlife in distress for over 60 years.

But increasing visitor numbers and modern animal welfare standards have made the old facility inadequate.

Legally compliant

The project underwent a full Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) under the Environmental Management and Coordination Act (EMCA) and was approved by NEMA. Stakeholders were consulted in October 2025, and the EIA licence (Ref: NEMA/ENVIS/CPR/LIC‑0940) was issued in December 2025.

Why relocate? 

• Align with WOAH and IUCN animal welfare standards
• Provide larger, more natural enclosures
• Reduce congestion and improve visitor safety
• Streamline rescue, treatment, and rehabilitation operations

Key features of the new orphanage

• Modern enclosures, veterinary units, and a wildlife hospital with surgical capacity
• Quarantine and nursery facilities
• Areas for animal release and rewilding
• Improved visitor amenities, walkways, sanitation, and parking
• Outdoor learning spaces and conservation education centres
• Over 500 direct jobs and opportunities for young Kenyans

The current site will be restored and rewilded, strengthening the ecological integrity of Nairobi National Park.

KWS says the relocation also strengthens links between wildlife conservation and Kenya’s tourism sector, including proximity to the Bomas International Convention Centre.

This improves access, visitor flow, and boosting Kenya’s profile as a global conservation and tourism destination.

The agency describes the move as a strategic investment that safeguards wildlife, enhances education, and aligns with both national law and international standards.