Protests broke out at Karura Forest just hours after the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) announced that a centralised eCitizen payment system would be mandatory for all visitors.
Environmental activists identifying as Friends of Karura Forest (FKF) staged protests on Friday, August 29, in a bid to reject the move.
According to the group, KFS did not consult with them before making the move, a decision with which they completely disagree.
‘’Unfortunately, the FKF was not informed of this significant decision, which will disrupt our operations. The government has taken control of the forest income without prior notice or alternative financing for staff and service contracts, effective today,’’ FKF said in a statement.
According to videos seen by Kenyans.co.ke, agitated FKF members protested at the entrance to the forest on Kiambu Road, throwing water bottles and other items onto the road in retaliation.
Residents living near the forest also joined the protests, accusing the government of wanting to take over the payments despite not taking part in the forest’s restoration.
The FKF revealed that the KFS's decision would severely affect the forest's operations, directing all those affected to take their grievances to the KFS.
‘’We expect this unilateral decision by KFS to severely disrupt all forest operations. We apologise for any inconvenience to our visitors and encourage you to direct any inquiries or complaints to KFS,’’ the statement continued.
eCitizen Payments
In an official statement issued on Thursday, August 28 night, KFS stated that all payments would now be made through the official e-Citizen platform, using Paybill number 222222.
According to the KFS statements, the change in payment mode was effective Friday, August 29. Before this change, payments for all Karura Forest activities, including picnics, hiking, and activities offered in the forest, were made through the FKF.
Responding to the move, environmentalists under the Green Belt Movement also condemned KFS, pointing out that the shift came weeks after the FKF Community Forest Association joined them in winning a case against using 56 acres of the forest land to extend a road.
Green Belt has urged the government to halt the payment method shift; they have also called on Kenyans to join in the champion for the forest.
‘’The government to immediately halt these unlawful actions and respect the established legal frameworks protecting Karura,’’ GBM said.
