The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has addressed online speculation after a photo showing a tree stump beside a commemorative stone went viral on social media, sparking allegations of illegal logging.
In a statement issued July 15, KFS said the circulating image has been misinterpreted and does not depict an unauthorized felling.
The photo had Prof. Wangari Maathai commemorative stone alongside a tree stump.
“This is not the case,” the agency said, referring to claims of illegal logging. “Anyone requiring further clarification on this matter is invited to contact Kenya Forest Service.”
The photo triggered swift backlash online, with many users expressing outrage over what they believed was the cutting down of a protected or memorial tree.
However, KFS stated that the assumptions were unfounded and urged the public to seek verified information before spreading such claims.
KFS oversees forest conservation and management in Kenya, where deforestation and illegal logging remain sensitive issues.
Also Read: KFS Clarifies Viral Karura Forest Video Showing Massive Destruction
The agency regularly conducts patrols and audits to safeguard the country’s forests and promote sustainable forestry practices.
Logging in Kenya
Early on January 28, KFS had addressed concerns over alleged illegal logging in the Karura and Thogoto forests, confirming that harvesting activities are ongoing within the bounds of official management plans.
In a statement on X, KFS said in Karura Forest, exotic tree species are being harvested for fuel wood and fencing posts over a 6.3-hectare area.
The harvest aligns with the 2024/2025 financial year felling plan.
“Replanting with indigenous trees will begin during the March to May long rains,” KFS said on Tuesday, January 28.
The long-term management plan aims to replace exotic plantations with natural forests to support conservation efforts.
300 Trees in Memory of Wangari Maathai
In 2024, The National Environment Management Council (NEMC) and the Tanzania Forest Services Agency (TFS) planted over 300 trees in the Pugu/Kazimzumbwi Nature Forest Reserve to honour the legacy of the late Kenyan environmentalist and human rights advocate, Professor Wangari Maathai.
Also Read: Halimah Mohamed: Meet 20-Year-Old Lady Following Wangari Maathai’s Steps
The tree-planting event drew participation from various diplomats based in Tanzania as well as local environmental campaigners.
NEMC’s Director General, Dr. Immaculate Semesi, stated the importance of encouraging the public to value tree planting as a vital step in environmental conservation and a practical response to the effects of climate change.
She explained that the initiative served as a meaningful tribute to Prof. Maathai, whose dedication to environmental advocacy and tree planting earned her global recognition, including the Nobel Peace Prize.
“Prof. Maathai was a true champion of the environment, not just for Africa, but globally. Her work continues to inspire, and this activity is one way of keeping her legacy alive,” she said.
“At NEMC, we believe that ‘environment is life,’ and trees are at the heart of that. That’s why we’re committed to planting as many as we can, whenever we can.”
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