KWS rolls out new ‘KWSPay’ system for seamless park payments
The new payment system introduces multiple payment options, including M-Pesa, bank cards, bank transfers, and an eWallet.
The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has announced the transition from the old eCitizen platform to the upgraded new eCitizen payment system branded as KWSPay.
In a joint statement issued by KWS Director General Erustus Kanga and eCitizen Director General Isaac Ochieng, the two institutions acknowledged concerns raised by tourism stakeholders and members of the public following the transition to the new and upgraded payment system.
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"The transition from the old eCitizen platform to the upgraded new eCitizen payment system, branded as 'KWSPay', introduces a more seamless, enhanced and flexible process for booking and making payments for Conservation Fees and other KWS services," the joint statement reads in part.
According to the statement, the new system becomes operational from 6:00 pm on Saturday, November 1, 2025, with detailed user instructions available on the KWS website and the eCitizen portal.
The new payment system introduces multiple payment options, including M-Pesa, bank cards, bank transfers, and an eWallet. All transactions will apply a monthly US dollar exchange rate based on the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) rates, along with facilitation charges meant to cushion the service provider against inflation, currency fluctuations, and interbank charges.
"The dollar exchange rate will be reviewed and communicated monthly on the KWS website and KWSpay portal," the statement reads.
KWS further clarified that a nominal administrative fee per transaction will apply, as outlined in Gazette Notice No. 17422 of December 22, 2023.
Additionally, a 5 per cent gateway fee will be charged per transaction, in line with CBK approval, to support system maintenance and operational costs. Payments made through bank cards may also attract additional charges depending on the card service provider, which may be up to 3.5 per cent.
KWS and eCitizen reaffirmed their commitment to providing efficient, transparent, and customer-friendly payment services to improve access to Kenya’s national parks, reserves, and sanctuaries.
The KWSPay system was first unveiled in June 2025.
According to the KWS, it offers a quicker and more user-friendly experience for both local and international tourists, slashing the time it takes to buy park tickets from around 10 minutes to just two or three.
“When you walk into Nairobi National Park right now, you realise that you don't need to log in to the eCitizen platform. We have developed the payment system, reducing the time required to log in from 10 to 12 minutes to a period of about two to three minutes. You can be able to also pay for your ticket from the comfort of your home,” said KWS director general Erastus Kanga.
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