This archive report was first published on 16 July 2019.
Residents of Marigat have expressed concerns that a logging ban is hindering their efforts to control the invasive mathenge tree, which has spread to over 15,000ha in the area.
According to the Ministry of Environment, communities were allowed to harvest the tree for commercial purposes after it was deemed a nuisance to locals, their livestock, and the environment.
However, residents describe the guidelines for exempting mathenge from the logging ban as overly stringent.
"Acquiring a permit is a tedious process that could be made easier if we were given permission by the nearest administrator," said Johanna Karatu, a resident.
Residents are seeking a simpler permit process to allow for easier harvesting of the tree, which is already a menace in the area.
Environment Cabinet Secretary Keriako Tobiko banned logging in February last year in an effort to rehabilitate the country's forests.
Other affected counties include Turkana, Garissa, Tana River, Lamu, and Taita Taveta.
