Greenpeace Africa Criticizes Kenya Forest Service for Ignoring…

Greenpeace Africa has denounced the Kenya Forest Service for downplaying threats to forests in Kenya, claiming that despite official assurances, significant deforestation and land grabs persist. Notable areas under threat include Karura, Aberdare, Suam, and Oloolua forests. The organization calls for immediate action to halt deforestation and prioritize genuine conservation efforts, stating that current government initiatives lack sincerity without enforcement against destructive projects.

Greenpeace Africa has publicly criticized the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) for allegedly minimizing the serious threats facing the country’s forests. The organization claims that despite KFS assurances of forest safety, extensive deforestation and illegal land encroachments persist, jeopardizing Kenya’s environmental priorities and climate commitments. This contradiction has sparked significant concern among environmental advocates and the public alike.

The Kenyan government has outlined intentions to enhance forest cover, including a target to plant 15 billion trees by 2032; however, this commitment is undermined by ongoing threats to key forest areas. Specifically, critical forests facing risks include:

1. Karura Forest – 51.64 acres are designated for the expansion of Kiambu Road, with legal opposition by the Green Belt Movement (GBM).
2. Aberdare Forest – Construction of the Ndunyu Ihithe Road threatens both biodiversity and this crucial water catchment area, with involvement from GBM as petitioners.
3. Suam Forest – 50 acres have been earmarked for a border town project, jeopardizing extensive reforestation endeavors.
4. Oloolua Forest – Ongoing land-grabbing attempts have led to multiple court disputes.
5. Ngong Road Forest – This area faces rapid destruction from various projects, including private leases and infrastructure developments involving:
– Lenana Block – Cleared for diverse commercial constructions such as a railway and a boarding school.
– Sanctuary Block – Under threat from a private lodge and a stadium.
– Karen Block – Constructing a police post has further diminished forest area.
– Bomas Block – Parts are being considered for new construction.

Amos Wemanya, the Responsive Campaigns Lead at Greenpeace Africa, condemned KFS’s approach as a profound neglect of its responsibilities. He stated, “It is devastating to see KFS turn a blind eye to the destruction unfolding…KFS is failing in its duty to protect Kenya’s natural heritage.” This sentiment reflects the growing frustration among environmentalists regarding the government’s failure to implement meaningful climate policies.

In response, Greenpeace Africa, alongside thousands of concerned citizens and the Green Belt Movement, is calling for immediate action to end deforestation. They emphasize that the government’s promises of increased tree planting hold little value without genuine efforts to stop forest destruction. Wemanya further asserted, “Kenyans deserve real climate action, not empty promises and greenwashing.”

Greenpeace Africa is urging both KFS and the government to prioritize effective conservation measures, enhance protections for forests, and cease projects that threaten the integrity of Kenya’s vital ecosystems.

In summary, Greenpeace Africa’s condemnation of the Kenya Forest Service underscores the urgent need to address the escalating threats to Kenya’s forests. Despite governmental promises to improve forest cover, ongoing deforestation and environmental degradation reveal a significant gap between policy and practice. The involvement of Greenpeace and local advocates emphasizes the call for authentic climate action and the need for stringent protections against developmental encroachments.

Original Source: www.capitalfm.co.ke