CS Duale vows to block illegal occupation of forest land
Duale emphasised that while the process of title revocation takes time, the government has already taken action to stop illegal constructions on forest land.
Environment Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has declared a firm stance against illegal encroachments on forest land, insisting that no one will be permitted to occupy these areas without a Special User License granted by the Kenya Forest Service (KFS).
"Nobody will take occupation of any land that belongs to the forest. The only occupation allowed under the law is what is called a special user license, given by KFS through its board," said CS Duale in a simulcast with NTV and Nation FM.
Duale emphasised that while the process of title revocation takes time, the government has already taken action to stop illegal constructions on forest land.
"We have stopped people from constructing on forest land, and Kenya Forest Guards have been deployed to monitor and secure these areas," he explained.
"I have written a detailed report to the Ministry of Lands and the Members of Parliament involved. I am confident that they will not touch these lands again."
The Environment CS also addressed the historical roots of the problem, acknowledging that the issue of encroachment had been ongoing for years.
"Some of the issues regarding encroachment were sanctioned many years ago," Duale admitted.
"Even within my ministry, people did not do their work properly, and there were irregularities, especially in places like Karura, where conflicts of interest have also been a major issue."
Despite the challenges, Duale remained optimistic about reversing the damage and ensuring the protection of Kenya's forests.
Duale also pointed out that he is actively working to reverse any previous mismanagement of forest resources.
"I am happy to say that the Forest Management and Coordination Act provides a robust legal framework to safeguard our forests," he concluded. "It needs implementation, and we will ensure it is enforced."
Duale's commitment was also made clear in his earlier confirmation hearing, where he vowed to revoke illegal title deeds and stop unlawful constructions on forest land.
Other Topics To Read
Top Stories Today
