The controversy surrounding control of Watamu Boat Operators funds that was deducted by the Association of Boat Owners, which is in dispute with another group over management concession funds deducted from Marine parking fees, wants the Kenya Wildlife Service to intervene and resolve the dispute to enable more than Sh5 million being held by the authorities released.
The Watamu Excursion Marine Association (WEMA) which has the dispute with Watamu Association of Boat Operators (WABO) both dealing with boat excursions said they want the funds to be released on condition that it benefits the community.
Addressing a press conference in Watamu on Wednesday, the Operators together some elders from Watamu said they had no faith with WABO and wanted a new committee formed to manage the funds as currently, only two people were benefitting.
The concession fees are normally deducted by KWS from every boat carrying 10 passengers and above and are meant to benefit community and boat operators at the end of every season.
Currently, KWS is withholding more than Sh5 million following the controversy surrounding the management of the funds.
Fadhil Omar the Chairman of WEMA said the concession funds was only benefitting WABO officials adding that there was no transparency in the manner in which the funds were spent.
“Watamu Boat operators Association is not transparent they always sideline the community and Watamu Excursion marine Association, for the last three years it’s only them who benefitted," he said.
He said WEMA has 10 boats while WABO has over 18 boats but surprisingly the committee comprises of only members from WABO.