This archive report was first published on 2 July 2020.
On Wednesday, July 1, 2020, Kenya's Environment and Forestry Cabinet Secretary, Keriako Tobiko, called on the Kenya Forest Service to fast-track the development of a master plan for Ngong Hills Forest. The plan aims to identify quick wins that will transform the forest and harness its potential for the benefit of the public.
During a meeting hosted by the Kenya Forest Service, Tobiko tasked the Service, along with other stakeholders, to formulate a team that would see the fast-tracking of the Ngong Hills Forest Collaborative Framework within three weeks. The framework will identify products that can benefit members of the public and increase the value of the forest asset.
The CS also gave a 30-day notice to all community members who have grazed animals in the forest, leading to the destruction of planted trees, to refrain from the illegal activity and seek user rights through the KFS. Tobiko emphasized that no livestock will be allowed into the forest at any given time to ensure the protection of the critical water catchment area.
Additionally, the CS pointed out that littering forests with plastic products is an offence punishable by law. He instructed the KFS to implement the directive, which includes outlawing alcoholic drinks, plastics, and any litter in all forest resources.
According to the Kenya Forest Service, the forest has been receiving over 3,000 visitors for recreation and relaxation mainly over weekends, resulting in an increase in revenue. The Service indicated this on its social media pages.
Others in attendance at the meeting included members of the Ngong Metro Community Forest Association, among other stakeholders. The open-air meeting aimed to enhance conservation, management, and protection efforts of Ngong Hills Forest.
Chief Conservator of Forests Julius Kamau appreciated the goodwill exhibited by all stakeholders and reiterated the importance of developing mutual benefit mechanisms that connect lower catchment residences with the upper catchment through CFAs.
