KFS refutes claims of luxury hotel in Ngong Road Forest, says construction of eco-camp ongoing
The clarification follows a letter from the Greenbelt Movement, a nature conservation organisation, which alleged that a luxury hotel was being built within the forest.
The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has defended the construction of a bush eco-camp within Ngong Road Forest, clarifying that the project, which consists of tents on semi-permanent structures, is an officially sanctioned development under the Ngong Road Forest Management Plan.
The clarification follows a letter from the Greenbelt Movement, a nature conservation organisation, which alleged that a luxury hotel was being built within the forest.
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According to KFS, the camp is part of a broader effort to enhance the Sanctuary block of the forest.
The area is currently undergoing improvements, including the installation of an electric fence, aimed at improving security, promoting natural regeneration, and regulating access to the forest.
KFS stated that before licensing the development, a full Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) was carried out in accordance with environmental regulations.
“Prior to the issuance of the license for the camp, a comprehensive EIA report was prepared in accordance with established laws and procedures. Furthermore, a public participation process, conducted in collaboration with the Community Forest Association, garnered the endorsement of relevant stakeholders,” added the KFS.
The Service said the initiative is intended to create a high-quality green space for Nairobi residents, easing the pressure on Karura Forest, which currently hosts more than 80,000 visitors monthly.
In its commitment to sustainable forest management, KFS said it continues to work closely with forest-adjacent communities and development partners. The I&M Foundation, it added, is contributing approximately Sh200 million to the ongoing development of the Sanctuary block.
KFS also announced that new financial regulations are being enforced, requiring all payments related to forest access, venue hire, licenses, and other fees to be made through official government payment platforms. These guidelines apply to all forests under its management, including Karura and Ngong Road Forests.
“The Kenya Forest Service is implementing strict fiscal regulations that require all payments for forest resources, including visitor access, venue hire, licenses, and fees, to be made exclusively through government-approved payment platforms,” it noted.
Responding to concerns raised by the Greenbelt Movement, KFS cautioned that the information may misrepresent the facts and create unnecessary public concern.
It urged the public to seek direct clarification from the agency on matters related to gazetted forests to ensure the dissemination of accurate information.
"KFS notes with concern that the Greenbelt Movement, a long-standing partner, is disseminating what appears to be misleading information. This information risks inciting public discontent regarding the status of Ngong Road Forest."
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