Greenpeace Africa Critiques Kenya Forest Service on Forest Threats

Greenpeace Africa criticizes the Kenya Forest Service for misrepresenting the threats to the country’s forests, as deforestation and encroachments rise. Key forests are threatened by government land allocation projects, undermining environmental commitments. The organization demands accountability and meaningful action to prevent further destruction of vital ecosystems.

Greenpeace Africa has publicly condemned the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) for its claims that the nation’s forests are not under significant threat. According to Greenpeace, KFS is misleading the public as deforestation and land encroachment escalate. Evidence suggests that substantial sections of forests are being cleared for various projects, which contradict Kenya’s environmental commitments.

Concerns are growing over the government’s plans, which appear to contradict its goal of increasing forest cover by planting 15 billion trees by 2032. Several key forests are currently threatened:
1. Karura Forest – 51.64 acres designated for Kiambu Road expansion, with the case being challenged in court by the Green Belt Movement.
2. Aberdare Forest – The planned Ndunyu Ihithe Road threatens important biodiversity and a vital water catchment area, with the Green Belt Movement among the petitioners.
3. Suam Forest – 50 acres allocated for a new border town, which jeopardizes past reforestation initiatives.
4. Oloolua Forest – Ongoing land-grabbing efforts have resulted in legal disputes.
5. Ngong Road Forest – Facing rapid destruction due to commercial projects and private leases, including the following developments:
– Lenana Block – Cleared for a railway, a girls’ school, and commercial leases.
– Sanctuary Block – A private lodge, a stadium, and other unregulated constructions occupying substantial areas.
– Karen Block – A police post has further encroached upon forest land.
– Bomas Block – Portions under consideration for construction.

Amos Wemanya, Responsive Campaigns Lead for Greenpeace Africa, described KFS’s negligence as a betrayal of its protective role. He stated, “It is devastating to see KFS turn a blind eye to the destruction unfolding in Karura, Aberdare, Suam, and beyond. Our forests are being bulldozed for so-called ‘development projects’ that threaten our climate, water, and livelihoods. KFS is failing in its duty to protect Kenya’s natural heritage.”

Greenpeace Africa, supported by thousands of concerned citizens and the Green Belt Movement, is calling for immediate actions to stop deforestation. They emphasized that the government’s promises of planting trees ring hollow when forest destruction persists. Wemanya further asserted, “Kenyans deserve real climate action, not empty promises and greenwashing.”

The organization insists that KFS and the government must focus on authentic conservation efforts rather than pursuing short-term financial gains. They advocate for the reinforcement of forest protection measures and the cessation of projects jeopardizing critical ecosystems in Kenya.

In conclusion, Greenpeace Africa has raised serious concerns regarding the Kenya Forest Service’s downplaying of deforestation threats, highlighting specific forests at risk. The organization’s call for accountability stresses the need for genuine conservation efforts. Activists advocate for serious climate action in light of ongoing environmental degradation, urging the government to honor its commitments on forestry and environmental protection instead of prioritizing short-term developments.

Original Source: www.capitalfm.co.ke