President William Ruto has reaffirmed the government's stance against farming in forests, rejecting calls by Kericho residents to allow grazing in forested areas. The stance aims to protect the areas from deforestation and environmental degradation.
Speaking at a roadside gathering in Kericho on Thursday, March 14, President Ruto firmly stated, "Until you confirm people going to graze will not carry axes, there will be no grazing."
He emphasised the need to protect forests from unsustainable practices such as illegal logging and farming.
The debate over forest use has gained prominence following increased conservation efforts by the Kenya Kwanza government.
Remarks by Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua in September 2022, had tongues wagging, where he hinted at the reintroduction of the controversial shamba system, allowing farming inside forests.
Gachagua argued that such a move would increase food production and address maize shortages in the country.
The Plantation Establishment and Livelihood Improvement Scheme (PELIS) revived the shamba system, which had faced criticism from environmentalists during the colonial era.
This initiative allowed farmers to lease forest land for agricultural activities, contributing to both food security and reforestation efforts.
While Kenya faces challenges in balancing economic development with environmental conservation, the government remains committed to having 10% forest cover by the end of the year.
Currently, just over 7% of Kenya's land is forested, with ongoing efforts to conserve and expand forested areas.
The government has committed Ksh10 billion in 2022 towards forest conservation to combat deforestation caused by population growth, commercial agriculture and increased demand for wood fuel.
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