CS Duale reiterates climate change target in first Kenya Forest Service visit

On Monday, Aden Duale, Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry, visited the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) headquarters in Karura, Nairobi.

The visit marked Duale's initial efforts to familiarise himself with the ministry’s key areas during his early days in office.

Accompanied by Gitonga Mugambi, the Forestry Principal Secretary, Duale was received by the Kenya Forest Service leadership, including Chief Conservator of Forests Alex Lemarkoko and KFS Board Chairman Titus Korir.

The formalities included an inspection of a guard of honour presented by Kenya Forest officers, as well as discussions with the KFS Board, management, and staff.

Duale underscored the crucial role of environmental conservation in achieving Kenya's national target of 30 per cent tree cover. This goal is part of the broader national strategy to combat climate change and ensure sustainable development in the country.

After taking over the ministry from CS Soipan Tuya, who was appointed to lead the defence docket, Duale highlighted the urgent need to rehabilitate Nairobi's rivers, which have suffered significant pollution over the years.

The rivers, contaminated by industrial waste, agricultural runoff, and encroachment by private entities, have become a focal point for his environmental agenda.

Environment CS Aden Duale plants a tree at the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) headquarters in Karura, Nairobi County on Monday, August 19, 2024. (Phoot: Aden Duale/X)

Duale stated that Nairobi, as the host city for the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), has a responsibility to restore its reputation as a green city.

To achieve this, he plans to collaborate closely with Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, with their joint efforts focusing on rejuvenating the city's green spaces, which have been under pressure due to urban expansion and environmental degradation.

During his address, Duale issued a stern warning to those who have encroached on forested areas and riparian zones. He declared that his leadership would not tolerate such activities.

"We cannot allow the illegal use of riparian land for construction or farming," he said.

Duale also emphasised the importance of adhering to the law in environmental conservation efforts. He emphasised the importance of removing unauthorised dumpsites along the banks of the Nairobi River as part of a larger river restoration project.

In a post on his social media accounts, Duale reiterated his commitment to balancing economic growth with environmental preservation. He emphasised the need for Kenya to continue its leadership in sustainable practices.

"Our focus will be on balancing economic growth with environmental preservation, ensuring Kenya's continued leadership in sustainable practices," he said.