The public must obtain permits before transporting forest products, KFS warns

The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has clarified that a permit is required to transport forest products such as firewood, charcoal, timber, poles and bamboo, even if they are harvested from private or community land.

In a statement on Sunday, KFS said that this requirement is in line with the Forest Conservation and Management Act, 2016.

"Kenya Forest Service wishes to clarify to the public that as per the Forest Conservation and Management Act 2016, a permit is required for transportation of all forest products including those harvested from private lands, farms and community land," KFS says in a statement.

The clarification came after a company in Sabatia, Vihiga County, questioned the legality of an arrest involving the transportation of bamboo.

The agency urged the public to comply with these regulations to avoid penalties.

"The public is advised to consult the nearest Kenya Forest Service office before transporting any forest produce in order to receive a permit and any other technical assistance," the statement said.

Meanwhile, President William Ruto recently allowed the Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA) to cultivate trees in forests managed by KFS.

The move aims to benefit both tea farmers and conservation efforts by providing a regulated source of firewood for tea factories.

“Because you sometimes use wood fuel in your factories you want to work with Kenya Forest Service to see whether you can participate in growing trees in a manner that is mutually beneficial,” the President said.

“You have asked that we allocate you spaces in our forested areas and you can do commercial forestry where you harvest and we share the benefits between your factories and KFS,” he added.

The directive is expected to open up more activity in protected areas, while still ensuring sustainable management of forest resources.

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