This archive report was first published on 19 June 2020.
On June 19, 2020, Nyandarua County government submitted a new application to the National Environment Management Authority (Nema) to hive off 163 acres from Aberdare Forest to expand Ndaragwa township.
The move, sponsored by two-time MP Jeremiah Kioni, aims to transform Ndaragwa from a 38.5-acre dusty unplanned town into a 163-acre well-planned commercial hub.
Ndaragwa's expansion plan has been on the cards for decades, with Nyandarua County and the defunct District Development Committee unanimously approving hiving off forest land.
A survey of the forest's new boundaries has been conducted to pave the way for settlement areas, public facilities, and an industrial hub.
According to an environmental and social impact assessment study report prepared by UDELC Consultants, hiving off 163 acres would have minimal adverse effects on the biodiversity in the forest.
Lead expert Fridah Wilumila Mugo stated that the proposed variation would not majorly affect any rare endangered, threatened species (RETS) since there are none documented or found within the area proposed for excision.
"The positive impacts of the proposed boundary variation include the addition of more land for infrastructure and amenity development, increase of land available for housing, increased investment, employment, and economic activities," she said.
The Nema has invited comments from interested stakeholders within the next 30 days before deciding on the application.
