The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has dismissed allegations by the Green Belt Movement (GBM) that the establishment of a luxurious hotel within Ngong Forest is illegal.
In a statement on Friday, May 16, KFS clarified that the camp, which comprises tents on semi-permanent infrastructures, was an approved development under the Ngong Road Forest Management Plan.
According to the Forest Service, a comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) was prepared before the licence for the establishment of the camp was issued.
Similarly, KFS revealed that a public engagement was conducted jointly with the Community Forest Association, garnering the endorsement of relevant stakeholders.
"The Sanctuary block of Ngong Road Forest is currently undergoing significant enhancements, including the installation of an electric fence to bolster its security, enhance natural regeneration, and provide controlled access to the forest block," KFS reiterated.
While addressing the matter, the government entity noted that the ongoing development inside the forest was aimed at establishing a premier green space for Nairobi residents and alleviating the substantial visitor pressure on Karura Forest.
Notably, the entity announced that the establishment of the luxurious camp recently received a financial boost from a local bank, which pledged to contribute Ksh200 million to facilitate the construction.
KFS revealed that once the construction is complete, it would institute strict measures for those seeking to spend time inside the camps, adding that fees would be paid directly via government payment platforms.
In the presser, the Forest Service went ahead to accuse the Greenbelt Movement of allegedly disseminating misleading information to incite the public regarding the status of Ngong Road Forest.
"KFS notes with concern that the Greenbelt Movement, a long-standing partner, is disseminating what appears to be misleading information. This information risks inciting public discontent regarding the status of Ngong Road Forest," the agency lamented.
To address pending issues, Kenyans with concerns were advised to seek clarification from the Kenya Forest Service for confirmation of facts and to enhance the dissemination of accurate information.
KFS's clarification comes a day after the Greenbelt Movement raised concerns following reports of encroachment into the popular forest. In a letter, the movement warned of the dangers posed by the encroachment of protected forests.
The Greenbelt Movement called on the KFS to name the developer and outline the process by which the developer was granted the permit to construct the camp.
