Friends of Karura Forest, KFS in bitter row over alleged funds mismanagement
The rebuttal follows remarks by Kenya Forest Service Chief Conservator of Forests, Alex Lemarkoko, who claimed that an audit had uncovered irregularities in FKF’s financial management.
The Friends of Karura Forest (FKF), a community-led conservation group, has firmly denied allegations of embezzlement involving funds collected at Karura Forest.
The rebuttal follows remarks by Kenya Forest Service (KFS) Chief Conservator of Forests, Alex Lemarkoko, who claimed that an audit had uncovered irregularities in FKF’s financial management.
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According to KFS, the group allegedly ignored provisions of the Joint Management Agreement, failed to submit certified accounts and budgets for approval, and engaged in fraudulent practices.
In response, FKF stressed that its financial records are properly maintained, audited annually, and shared with the relevant authorities. It added that gate collection accounts are jointly managed by FKF and KFS signatories, ensuring oversight of all payments.
"We confirm that all Joint Management Committee (IMC) and FKF financial statements are up to date, and that audited accounts are submitted to the relevant authorities, including KFS, each year," the organisation said.
Not involved
The group also pointed out that the audit cited by KFS was prepared without their involvement. A joint committee meeting to review the report had been scheduled for August 29, 2025, but according to FKF, KFS staff instead took control of the forest that day, removing FKF personnel from offices and premises.
FKF further clarified that its board members serve without pay, driven solely by the mission of conserving Karura Forest for the public good.
"We want to assure the public that all FKF Board Member positions are voluntary. Board Members receive no payment for their time or services. Their sole purpose is to serve the public and preserve Karura Forest for future generations," FKF said.
The group also reminded the public that the Office of the Auditor General had, as recently as July, raised concerns over poor financial controls within KFS itself.
"We find it concerning that these allegations come from the head of the KFS without any factual basis. We would also like to remind the public that the Office of the Auditor General has, as recently as July of this year, raised its own concerns about chronic financial mismanagement and weak controls within the Kenya Forest Service," FKF stated.
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