The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has denied claims of an
ongoing construction of a luxury hotel inside the Ngong Forest.
According to KFS, it is a tented camp with semi-permanent
structures that was approved after a comprehensive Environmental Impact
Assessment (EIA) probe was conducted in per the law.
“KFS wishes to clarify that this camp, comprising tents on
semi-permanent infrastructures, is an approved development under the Ngong Road
Forest Management Plan.
“Furthermore, a public participation process, conducted in
collaboration with the Community Forest Association, garnered the endorsement
of relevant stakeholders,” a KFS statement reads.
The service also clarified that the Sanctuary block of Ngong
Road Forest is currently undergoing significant enhancements, including the
installation of an electric fence to bolster its security.
The improvements will also enhance natural regeneration and
provide controlled access to the forest block.
“The ongoing development of Ngong Road Forest aims to
establish a premier green space for Nairobi residents, thereby alleviating the
substantial visitor pressure on Karura Forest, which currently receives over
80,000 visitors monthly.”
KFS said the project is being undertaken in collaboration with
the various stakeholders and forest-adjacent communities, as well as I&M Foundation,
which has provided Sh200 million towards the development of the Sanctuary
block.
The clarification comes after a nature conservation organization,
Greenbelt Movement, in a letter that has since gone viral, claimed that a luxury
hotel was being built inside the forest.
KFS cautioned that such a letter poses a danger of inciting the
public and further encouraged seeking clarification on all matters relating to
the service.
“Therefore, KFS notes with concern that the Greenbelt
Movement, a long-standing partner, is disseminating what appears to be
misleading information.
“This information, contained in a letter ostensibly
addressed to the Service, risks inciting public discontent regarding the status
of Ngong Road Forest.”
The Kenya Forest Service reaffirmed its commitment to its
mandate, calling on the public to continue supporting the development of green
spaces and tree growing that offer benefits to all.