This archive report was first published on 12 October 2019.
As the October 31 deadline approaches, the government plans to evict 10,000 families who have been irregularly allocated 17,101 acres of forest land in Maasai Mau Forest.
According to Rift Valley Regional Commissioner George Natembeya, more than 1,400 people have demolished their houses, while others are working to bring them down and collect their valuables.
“Almost everyone has now moved their moveables and are now working on removing construction materials, including timber and iron sheets. So far 3,366 households have moved out while more than 1,400 have demolished their houses,” Natembeya said.
Residents of Sierra Leone, among others, have demolished their houses amid resistance in other areas.
Security officers deployed in the area ahead of the evictions have intensified patrols.
Environment Cabinet Secretary Keriako Tobiko had announced in July that the government would embark on phase two of the evictions, warning residents not to expect compensation.
A section of leaders has protested the evictions, calling for talks to address the issue.
