Kenya's Environment and Land Court has ruled it will proceed with a high-profile case examining whether a multi-million dollar luxury safari camp is illegally obstructing the world-famous annual wildebeest migration.
Court Rejects Withdrawal, Sets February Hearing
The pivotal decision came on Thursday, 18th December 2025, after Judge Lucy Gacheru dismissed a motion from the original petitioner to withdraw the lawsuit. Despite the conservationist, Joel Meitamei Olol Dapash, filing to pull the case on Wednesday, stating his concerns were now addressed, the court exercised its discretion to continue.
Judge Gacheru emphasised that the serious environmental impact allegations raised were of significant public interest, warranting further judicial scrutiny. The court has scheduled the next hearing for 10th February to decide how the case will proceed.
International Condemnation Over Migration Corridor
The legal challenge was first filed in August 2025, sparking both local and international condemnation. The core allegation is that the positioning of the Ritz-Carlton Maasai Mara Camp, operated by hospitality giant Marriott International, infringes upon a critical corridor used during the great migration.
This natural spectacle sees over a million wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle move between Kenya's Maasai Mara and Tanzania's Serengeti, drawing thousands of tourists globally. The luxury camp, which charges guests up to $3,500 per night, is situated among other high-end tourist facilities in the reserve that capitalise on proximity to the migration.
Developers Seek Vindication in Court
In a notable twist, the project's developers, Lazizi Mara Limited, opposed the withdrawal of the case. They argued that despite their full compliance with all regulatory and statutory requirements, the venture had suffered significant reputational damage from the allegations.
The firm formally requested the court reject the withdrawal, insisting they be given a fair hearing to clear their name. This sets the stage for a contentious legal battle that pits conservation priorities against commercial development in one of Africa's most iconic wildlife regions.
The outcome could set a major precedent for how Kenya balances its lucrative tourism industry with the imperative to protect vital ecological processes.
