KFS announces public participation on Imenti Forest airstrip despite court case
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KFS invited residents and stakeholders to attend a forum on Friday, July 4, where officials will explain the proposed development, outline its anticipated benefits and collect views from the public before implementation.
The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has announced a public participation exercise on the proposed construction of an airstrip in Upper Imenti Forest, despite an ongoing court case challenging the controversial project.
In a public notice, KFS invited residents and stakeholders to attend a forum on Friday, July 4, where officials will explain the proposed development, outline its anticipated benefits and collect views from the public before implementation.
According to the Service, the proposed airstrip will be located at Kithoka Beat within the Meru Forest Station and occupy approximately 11 hectares of land.
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KFS said the project is expected to improve aviation access for forest management activities, strengthen emergency response operations and support economic growth in the region.
It said site assessments found the proposed location suitable for the project, noting that the area has sparse vegetation and is therefore expected to experience minimal ecological disruption.
KFS added that an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) is being undertaken in line with the Constitution, the Environmental Management and Co-ordination Act (EMCA) and other environmental regulations.
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Speaking during a press briefing on Thursday, Forestry Principal Secretary (PS) Gitonga Mugambi defended the planned public participation exercise, saying it would help residents understand the project and address concerns raised by the public.
"We believe with time that this project will be allowed by the law, and that is why we are engaging the public to understand the importance of this development," Mugambi said.
He added that KFS would respect the court process and abide by whatever decision is reached, while expressing confidence that the project would ultimately receive the court's approval.
The proposed airstrip has attracted opposition from environmental groups, conservationists and some residents concerned about the protection of the forest ecosystem. The project is also part of a broader development plan that includes a proposed State Lodge and golf course within the forest.
Three petitions seeking to stop the project have been filed, with the hearing scheduled for July 21.
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