The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has dismissed claims of an alleged plan to annex 51.64 acres of Karura Forest for the expansion of Kiambu Road. This clarification comes amidst legal action by the Greenbelt Movement, which accuses the government of encroaching on the forest.
In a statement released Wednesday, KFS emphasized that the expansion project will occur within the Kiambu Road wayleave, which has existed since 1951.
“The Kiambu Road wayleave was gazetted in 1951 and has remained within Karura Gazetted Forest since the pre-independence era,” KFS stated. The agency clarified that no part of Karura Forest will be hived off except for a planned interchange covering 2.2 hectares (5.4 acres).
KFS reiterated, “The notion that Karura Forest is being given out for expansion of Kiambu Road is false.”
Earlier the same day, the Greenbelt Movement announced a lawsuit challenging the government’s alleged plans to use forest land for the road expansion. “The Greenbelt Movement has moved to court to stop the government’s plan to annex 51.64 acres of Karura Forest for the expansion of Kiambu Road,” the organization wrote on X.
The movement, founded by Nobel Peace Prize winner Wangari Maathai, warned of significant ecological damage, comparing the 51.64 acres to 28 football pitches.
The organization stressed the need to protect Karura Forest as a vital urban green space crucial for biodiversity, water conservation, and climate mitigation.
In court documents, the movement argued that the project lacks critical Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) and adequate public participation. It alleged that plans for the road construction, alongside proposed developments like a recreational facility and ablution block, received approval without meeting environmental and procedural requirements.
The Greenbelt Movement underscored the ecological and cultural significance of Karura Forest. They noted that the forest provides essential environmental services, including water conservation and serving as an urban biodiversity haven. The group contended that prioritizing short-term economic gains undermines long-term environmental sustainability and public well-being.
The organization urged the court to nullify any agreements or tenders related to the road expansion project until comprehensive EIAs and public consultations occur.
The planned expansion of Kiambu Road has ignited a public debate on balancing development and environmental conservation. While KFS insists the project adheres to the gazetted wayleave, the Greenbelt Movement remains firm in its stance, vowing to protect Karura Forest against any perceived encroachment.
