Gerald Kyalo. (geraldbway).
The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has reassured the public that Karura Forest is still protected, despite concerns over the construction of National Youth Service (NYS) barracks within the forest. The concerns arose after images showed felled trees and ongoing works, sparking allegations of encroachment and privatisation.
KFS clarified that the works are part of a nationwide initiative to expand tree nurseries and strengthen forest restoration efforts. The barracks are being built in existing administrative and residential zones using prefabricated metal containers, and the project is also happening in other forest stations.
According to KFS, no indigenous forest or core conservation areas are affected, and no trees have been felled. The expansion aims to improve tree seedling production and support the national goal of growing 15 billion trees by 2032.
The agency emphasised that all activities comply with the Forest Conservation and Management Act (2016) and Article 69 of the Constitution, ensuring sustainable forest management and restoration. Karura Forest remains protected public land, KFS assured.
KFS clarified that the works are part of a nationwide initiative to expand tree nurseries and strengthen forest restoration efforts. The barracks are being built in existing administrative and residential zones using prefabricated metal containers, and the project is also happening in other forest stations.
According to KFS, no indigenous forest or core conservation areas are affected, and no trees have been felled. The expansion aims to improve tree seedling production and support the national goal of growing 15 billion trees by 2032.
The agency emphasised that all activities comply with the Forest Conservation and Management Act (2016) and Article 69 of the Constitution, ensuring sustainable forest management and restoration. Karura Forest remains protected public land, KFS assured.
