This archive report was first published on 5 September 2019.
On September 5, 2019, the Kenyan Cabinet made a significant decision regarding the Mau forest, a critical water tower that feeds the country's major rivers and plays a vital role in achieving food security.
Government Spokesman Cyrus Oguna revealed that the Cabinet had approved the relocation of families from the Mau area, stating that 'there was nothing special about Mau.'
Speaking during a weekly briefing, Oguna emphasized that the government's intention was to relocate families in a humane manner, upholding their dignity.
The move comes as a response to accusations made by Rift Valley leaders, led by Senate Majority Leader Kipchumba Murkomen, who had accused Environment Cabinet Secretary Keriako Tobiko of having vested interests in the eviction of those living in Mau.
However, Oguna steered clear of politics, urging those who spoke of insubordination to appreciate the government's processes.
The government's goal is to have all Kenyans occupying forests or any other gazetted land vacate, with the aim of saving the country's water towers and ensuring food security.
