The Green Belt Movement has voiced objections to the planned development of an airport, state lodge, and golf course in Imenti Forest, Meru County.
In a statement released on Thursday, June 4, the movement expressed strong disapproval regarding reports that high-ranking government officials are advancing initiatives that could result in the degradation of portions of the forest.
The organization had previously resisted the creation of a State Lodge and golf facility within the same forest area.
The group now indicates its apprehensions are being validated after discovering that on May 6, 2026, the Principal Secretary for Forestry gave approval to the Chief Conservator of Forests following a formal request concerning the project.
The request called for the issuance of a Special User License to enable the construction of a 17.5-kilometre Meru Bypass as part of the Horn of Africa Gateway Development Project.
According to the statement, the initiative is funded by the World Bank’s International Development Association.
The Green Belt Movement additionally noted reports and public accounts revealing that the Principal Secretary for Forestry, the Governor of Meru County, and representatives from the Kenya Forest Service had inspected Kambakia Forest, a segment of Imenti Forest.
“We are informed these projects will attract investment, enhance tourism, and promote economic expansion,” the Green Belt Movement stated.
The organization also highlighted concerns about recent alterations to Section 56(2) of the Forest Conservation and Management Act, which environmental advocates have vigorously opposed.
They contend the modifications authorize the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) in public forests under the supervision of public utilities.
“This is not development; it is exploitation disguised as economic advancement,” the movement said.
The Green Belt Movement further stressed that forests are preserved in trust for the Kenyan population and are not private properties to be distributed for political expediency.
Furthermore, the group is demanding complete transparency of all plans concerning Imenti Forest, as well as an immediate cessation of any procedures designed to allocate, license, or transform forest land for such purposes.