Greenpeace Africa has condemned the Kenya Forest Service for downplaying the threats against Kenya’s forests. The agency’s claims contradict evidence of ongoing deforestation and land-grabbing, threatening critical ecosystems despite the government’s commitment to expand forest cover. Greenpeace demands accountability and immediate action to halt forest destruction, underscoring the urgency for genuine environmental protection measures.
Greenpeace Africa has publicly criticized the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) for minimizing the alarming threats faced by Kenya’s forests. The organization asserts that KFS has misled the public while deforestation and land encroachments continue unchecked. Contrary to KFS’s claims, substantial evidence reveals extensive forest areas being cleared and allocated for projects that compromise environmental and climate obligations.
Significantly, the government’s plans complicate its commitment to enhance forest cover, including an ambition to plant 15 billion trees by 2032. Currently, several key forests are under severe threat, including:
– Karura Forest: 51.64 acres are designated for expansion of Kiambu Road, with the Green Belt Movement legally opposing the case.
– Aberdare Forest: A planned 25km Ndunyu Ihithe Road poses risks to biodiversity within a vital water catchment area, with GBM among the petitioners.
– Suam Forest: 50 acres are earmarked for a border town, endangering years of reforestation.
– Oloolua Forest: Ongoing land-grabbing attempts have resulted in legal battles.
– Ngong Road Forest: Rapid degradation is driven by infrastructure projects, private leases, and early entry permits, including proposals for railway, commercial leases, and police posts that diminish forest area.
Amos Wemanya, Greenpeace Africa’s Responsive Campaigns Lead, characterized KFS’s position as a failure of its responsibilities. 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 Kenyans and the Green Belt Movement, is insisting on immediate measures to combat deforestation and emphasizes that governmental tree-planting commitments are fruitless if destruction escalates. Wemanya further asserted, “Kenyans deserve real climate action, not empty promises and greenwashing.” Consequently, Greenpeace Africa appeals to KFS and the Kenyan government to prioritize authentic conservation strategies, reinforce forest protections, and suspend projects that endanger critical ecosystems.
In conclusion, Greenpeace Africa’s criticisms highlight the inconsistency in KFS’s claims regarding forest safety amid ongoing environmental threats. The organization calls for urgent governmental action to protect vital forest areas and stresses the need for authentic climate initiatives over surface-level commitments. Kenya’s environmental integrity relies on tangible conservation efforts, where short-term profits must not outweigh the necessity of preserving its natural heritage.
Original Source: www.capitalfm.co.ke
