URAGATE CULTURAL FESTIVALS
Meru Senator and Deputy Speaker of the Senate Kathuri Murungi has called on the national government to improve the road connecting Ura Gate to Meru National Park, saying better access could help unlock the area’s tourism potential.
Speaking yesterday at Ura Gate, Murungi urged the government to upgrade the road leading to the gate and facilitate its opening to tourists visiting the park. He said improved infrastructure would make the gate more accessible and encourage increased visitor numbers, opening up new economic opportunities for communities living around the park.
The Senator also called for the establishment of hotels and other accommodation facilities within the park, arguing that tourists should have convenient places to stay while exploring its attractions. He said the availability of accommodation would complement improved road access and strengthen the park’s ability to attract and retain visitors.
Murungi further proposed a change of name for Meru National Park as part of efforts to promote a sense of shared ownership among communities in the region. He suggested that a new name could better reflect the historical and cultural connection of the surrounding communities, including the Tharaka community of Tharaka Nithi.
According to Murungi, the Tharaka community also lost a significant portion of its former forest and bushland when the area was taken and incorporated into the national park. He said recognising this shared history could help foster greater unity and cooperation among communities living around the park.
The proposals come amid renewed calls for improved infrastructure and greater community participation in the management and economic benefits of Kenya’s national parks.