Greenpeace Africa has condemned the Kenya Forest Service for downplaying the severe threats to Kenya’s forests amid ongoing deforestation and land grabs. Major forests are at risk, with ongoing legal battles and planned projects that undermine environmental commitments. Greenpeace urges the government to prioritize genuine conservation and halt destructive initiatives to protect these vital ecosystems.
Greenpeace Africa has publicly criticized the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) for trivializing the significant threats facing Kenya’s forests. This statement comes in light of ongoing deforestation and land grabs, despite KFS’s assurances that the forests are not at risk. Evidence indicates that extensive areas of forest are being cleared and allocated for projects that contradict the nation’s environmental commitments.
The government’s initiatives appear inconsistent with its commitment to enhancing forest cover, including the ambitious goal of planting 15 billion trees by 2032. Numerous vital forests are currently in jeopardy, such as:
– Karura Forest: 51.64 acres are designated for Kiambu Road expansion, with the case pending in court led by the Green Belt Movement (GBM).
– Aberdare Forest: A planned 25km road threatens important biodiversity and a water catchment area, with GBM among those challenging this project.
– Suam Forest: 50 acres have been earmarked for a border town, undermining reforestation efforts.
– Oloolua Forest: Ongoing land-grabbing incidents have resulted in legal proceedings.
– Ngong Road Forest: Rapid destruction is occurring due to various infrastructure developments and private leases, affecting multiple blocks identified for proposed construction projects.
Amos Wemanya, the Responsive Campaigns Lead at Greenpeace Africa, condemned KFS for neglecting 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.” He charged that KFS is failing to protect Kenya’s natural heritage.
Greenpeace Africa, along with thousands of citizens and the Green Belt Movement, is calling for immediate action to prevent further deforestation. They contend that the government’s current tree-planting goals are ineffective if forest destruction continues. Wemanya stressed that “Kenyans deserve real climate action, not empty promises and greenwashing.”
Greenpeace Africa urges both KFS and the government to focus on genuine conservation efforts rather than temporary profits. They advocate for stronger forest protections and the cessation of projects that jeopardize essential ecosystems in Kenya.
In summary, Greenpeace Africa’s recent criticism highlights the urgent need to address the serious threats to Kenya’s forests. The discrepancy between government pledges and actual practices raises concerns over environmental integrity and forest preservation. Key forests are being compromised, emphasizing the necessity for concerted efforts in conservation. To ensure a sustainable future, the government must align its actions with its environmental commitments, safeguarding Kenya’s invaluable natural resources.
Original Source: www.capitalfm.co.ke
