The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has put the Friends of Karura Forest (FKF) on notice, cautioning against attempts to disrupt the government’s ambitious tree-planting initiative.
Chief Conservator of Forests Alex Lemarkoko said the ongoing project adopts a whole-of-government-and-society approach and cannot be derailed by isolated objections.
Lemarkoko stressed that a joint management committee meets monthly to address disputes and that the program is guided by legal mechanisms.
He criticised FKF for raising “false media accusations,” arguing the project is a national initiative benefiting all Kenyans, including schools, public institutions, and security agencies.
FKF, led by Karanja Njoroge, had accused KFS of failing to consult local communities in Karura Forest, particularly regarding the development of National Youth Service (NYS) barracks to support tree seedling production.
Lemarkoko clarified that the barracks will not involve cutting any trees and questioned Karanja’s authority to speak on behalf of FKF.
Karura Forest alone is set to produce two million seedlings, as part of KFS’s broader plan to expand roughly 300 nurseries nationwide, aiming to grow one billion trees annually.
The initiative aligns with the national goal of planting 15 billion trees by 2032 to achieve 30 per cent forest cover.
During the Wangari Maathai Day commemoration at the Kenya Forest Environment Education Trust (KFEET) Centre, FKF urged KFS to engage in dialogue with local communities before continuing construction.
Karanja highlighted the forest’s historical significance and its socio-economic benefits, including bursaries and tourism, insisting that proper consultation is crucial.
Lemarkoko, however, reiterated that the tree-growing agenda is inclusive and legally supported.
“This is a national effort. Anyone seeking to derail it is in for a rude shock,” he warned, reaffirming the government’s commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable forest management.
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