This archive report was first published on 27 June 2020.
On June 27, 2020, the government launched a land reclamation process in Ngong Forest, aimed at recovering illegally acquired land.
Over 800 homes built on a section of land hived off the forest have been earmarked for demolition, according to Environment and Forestry Cabinet Secretary Keriako Tobiko.
The estates targeted in the looming demolition exercise include Kenya Medical Association Estate, Lang'ata Gardens, Royal Park I, II and III, Langa’ta View Gardens, and Forest Edge. St. Mary’s Mission Hospital will also be affected.
CS Tobiko stated that owners of the properties to be demolished will not receive any compensation from the government, as the land was acquired illegally.
“I’m at this moment declaring the immediate commencement of the recovery process of the land in the Ngong’ Road Forest that individuals have illegally acquired over the years,” said CS Tobiko, adding that the order was made by President Uhuru.
The government plans to erect a fence around the forest once the grabbed land is recovered, creating a corridor for wildlife and opening the entire area for wildlife.
