Kenya Safari Lodges and Hotels (KSLH) has taken a major step in upgrading its operational capacity with the flagging off of two new Isuzu buses destined for Voi Safari Lodge in Tsavo East National Park and Ngulia Safari Lodge in Tsavo West National Park.
The buses were officially commissioned on January 21, 2026, at Isuzu East Africa’s Mombasa Road assembly plant in Nairobi, in a ceremony presided over by the Administrative Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife, Mr. Herman Shambi. He represented Cabinet Secretary Hon. Rebecca Miano at the event, which was also attended by members of the KSLH Board and senior executives from Isuzu East Africa.
Speaking during the ceremony, Mr. Shambi underscored the critical role of sustained investment in tourism infrastructure in keeping Kenya competitive on the global stage. He noted that tourism contributes approximately 10 per cent of Kenya’s Gross Domestic Product and supports more than two million jobs nationwide.
“Strengthening operational efficiency at key destinations such as Tsavo directly enhances visitor experience and Kenya’s global competitiveness,” Mr. Shambi said. “I encourage Kenyans to travel widely across the country, as even modest domestic tourism has a significant impact on local economies.”
KSLH Board Chairperson and Kenya Development Corporation (KDC) Director General, Ms. Norah Ratemo, said the acquisition of the buses aligns with KSLH’s broader modernization and turnaround strategy aimed at building a high-performing, sustainable hospitality enterprise.
“Voi and Ngulia Safari Lodges are strategically positioned within Kenya’s iconic safari circuit,” Ms. Ratemo said. “Enhancing operational capacity improves guest experience while supporting regional economic activity, conservation awareness, and destination competitiveness.”
Acting General Manager Mr. Ronald Simiyu said the new buses will play a vital role in strengthening day-to-day operations within the expansive Tsavo ecosystem.
“These buses will significantly improve staff mobility and guest transfers at both Voi and Ngulia Safari Lodges, enhancing efficiency while supporting regional tourism growth, local livelihoods, and conservation-driven development,” Mr. Simiyu said.
Isuzu East Africa Director of Sales and Marketing, Mr. Wanjohi Kangangi, highlighted the broader economic impact of supplying locally assembled vehicles.
“By supplying locally assembled buses, we are supporting Kenyan jobs, skills development, and the manufacturing value chain, while enabling KSLH to deliver reliable and efficient transport for staff and guests,” he said.
The two Isuzu NQR 33-seater buses, assembled in Kenya, will ensure safe and efficient movement of staff and visitors across Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks, while advancing the government’s Buy Kenya, Build Kenya policy.
The latest investment marks a significant milestone in KSLH’s transformation journey, signaling renewed momentum, improved operational excellence, and growing confidence in Kenya’s tourism growth trajectory.
