The Green Belt Movement (GBM) has intensified its criticism of the current tree removal and planned development of National Youth Service (NYS) lodging units within Karura Forest.
Through a statement issued to our news outlet, GBM described the initiative as ‘a breach of public confidence.’
GBM disclosed that Kenya Forest Service (KFS) had acknowledged the placement of ‘temporary container facilities’ scheduled to exist until 2032. Nevertheless, the organization expressed skepticism about the project’s magnitude, observing that native trees had already been cut down and locations readied for extensive construction work.
According to the statement, ‘Karura Forest represents community-driven environmental conservation. Its preservation was achieved through significant effort and cannot be endangered through non-transparent proceedings.’
GBM called for an immediate suspension of clearing operations, release of all authorizations and evaluations, and an open public engagement process inclusive of Friends of Karura Forest and the general public.
The Kisii Press Club, covering the dispute yesterday, shared these apprehensions and emphasized the secrecy enveloping the project.
Our reporting depicted how ‘chainsaw operators cut down multiple native trees as heavy equipment removed stumps in and around the Rangers Village.’
The report also revealed that the Friends of Karura Forest’s correspondence with KFS dated February 24th remained unanswered, with this inaction interpreted as ‘a conscious effort to exclude established community groups.’
The Green Belt Movement has allocated KFS a seven-day timeframe to deliver a thorough written reply.
Civil society organizations are mobilizing in support of Karura, perceiving the forest not just as an ecological area but as a vital symbol of grassroots civic action.
‘We have grown weary of the persistent threats to public forests,’ GBM affirmed, pledging to safeguard Karura’s integrity for current and future generations.