The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has officially rolled out an upgraded eCitizen payment platform, branded as KWSPay.
The new system is designed to enhance the experience of visitors booking and paying for conservation fees and other KWS services.
The agency announced that the new system, effective from 6:00 p.m. on November 1, 2025, replaces the old eCitizen platform and introduces a “seamless, enhanced, and flexible” payment process for both local and international users.
According to KWS Director General Prof. Erustus Kanga, the transition addresses concerns raised by tourism stakeholders and the public regarding the efficiency and convenience of the previous system.
The new KWSPay platform will offer multiple payment options, including Mpesa, bank cards, bank transfers, and eWallets.
“Kenya Wildlife Service acknowledges concerns raised by the tourism stakeholders and the public following the transition to a new and upgraded payment system,” the press statement read.
New KWS Payment Features
The KWSPay system integrates multiple upgrades to align with modern financial technologies and the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) regulations.
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All transactions will now include a monthly dollar ($) exchange rate, reviewed regularly in line with CBK rates.
“The dollar ($) exchange rate will be reviewed and communicated monthly on the KWS website and KWSPay portal.”
This adjustment is meant to cushion service providers from inflation, currency fluctuations, and interbank charges.
A nominal administrative fee will be applied per transaction, as outlined in Gazette Notice No. 17422, published on 22 December 2023.
KWS also noted that a 5% gateway fee will be charged per transaction, subject to CBK approval.
The charge will help cover maintenance and operational costs for the new system.
Payments made through bank cards may incur additional charges, depending on the card service provider, ranging from 0% to 3.5%.
Improving Access to Conservation Services
KWS explained that the upgraded platform is part of an effort to digitize and streamline public services.
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The agencies say KWSPay will improve access to Kenya’s national parks, reserves, and sanctuaries, enabling both domestic and international tourists to make payments with ease.
“KWS and eCitizen remain committed to providing efficient, transparent, and customer-friendly payment services that improve access to Kenya’s national parks, reserves, and sanctuaries under KWS management.”
The two institutions have invited continuous feedback from users to help refine the new system. Detailed user instructions are available on both the KWS and eCitizen websites.
“The two institutions welcome continuous feedback on the new upgraded system to improve service delivery.”
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