The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has responded to concerns raised by the Green Belt Movement (GBM) over reports of encroachment in Ngong Road Forest, where the movement claimed construction of a luxury hotel adjacent to the sanctuary has been sighted.
In a letter addressed to KFS Chief Executive Officer Alexander Lemarkoko on Thursday, May 16, the non-governmental organization emphasized the need for urgent intervention, warning of the risks posed by encroachment on protected forests, which serve as vital water catchment areas and natural habitats.
Additionally, GBM called for clarification regarding the hotel under construction, including the identity of the owner and details on who authorized the development.
“As you are aware, Ngong Road Forest is a critical ecological and biodiversity resource in Nairobi. It provides essential ecosystem services, including carbon sequestration, air purification, and water catchment protection, and serves as an important recreational and educational green space for the city’s residents. It is also home to diverse flora and fauna, some of which are endangered,” read part of the statement.
GBM added, “It has come to our attention that a private developer has begun construction within this forest area. This development, if confirmed, raises serious environmental, legal, and ethical concerns. In light of the above, we respectfully demand the following information from your office.”
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KFS clarifies construction of luxurious hotel inside Ngong Road Forest
However, KFS in a statement on Friday refuted claims of construction of a luxurious hotel within Ngong Road Forest and in turn confirmed the development of a bush eco-camp.
According to KFS, the eco-camp comprises of tents on semi-permanent infrastructures and is an approved development under the Ngong Road Forest Management Plan.
“The Sanctuary block of Ngong Road Forest is currently undergoing significant enhancements, including the installation of an electric fence to bolster its security, enhance natural regeneration, and provide controlled access to the forest block. Prior to the issuance of the license for the camp, a comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report was prepared in accordance with established laws and procedures,” said KFS.
Furthermore, the service said that a public participation process, conducted in collaboration with the Community Forest Association, garnered the endorsement of relevant stakeholders.
“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 statement adds.
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Green Belt Movement raises concerns
The Green Belt Movement had asked KFS to disclose the identity of the developer behind the luxury hotel project near Ngong Forest and explain the process by which the developer was granted access to carry out the construction.
GBM also urged the service to provide a copy of the EIA report and the license issued by the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) for the project.
The uproar over the construction of a luxury hotel adjacent to Ngong Road Forest comes months after KFS and NEMA suspended previously issued licenses to a private developer for a golf course and restaurant in the same forest.
The decision followed public outrage after the agencies initially sidestepped questions about the proposed commercial developments.
Environmentalists had opposed the earlier approval granted to Karura Golf Range Limited, warning that such projects threaten Nairobi’s already shrinking urban green spaces.
In response, both KFS and NEMA wrote to the developer citing various reasons for revoking the licenses.
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