The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has addressed the controversy surrounding the ongoing logging activities at Karura Forest in Nairobi and Thogoto Forest in Kiambu County, which has raised questions about its legality. Recently, photos and videos circulating on social media showed fallen trees in different parts of both forests, with trucks transporting logs along local roads.
In a statement released on Tuesday, KFS rejected claims that the logging is illegal. The agency explained that the operation is part of a nationwide effort to harvest forest plantations as per the government’s plan for the 2024/25 financial year.
KFS clarified that at Karura Forest, exotic tree species are being harvested over an area of 6.3 hectares for fuel wood and fencing posts. The agency also assured that indigenous trees will be replanted during the long rainy season, from March to May. The management plan for Karura aims to transition the exotic plantations into natural forests to enhance conservation.
At Thogoto Forest, KFS noted that the harvesting is taking place on 109.5 hectares of mature and over-mature forest plantations. After the operation, the agency stated that some areas will be left to regenerate naturally, while others will undergo replanting as part of a livelihood improvement initiative.
KFS also mentioned that public notices about the logging were posted at Karura before the activity began, and that relevant documents detailing the operations at both forests are available for public viewing. The agency emphasized that forest plantations are specifically cultivated to provide timber for the domestic market, which is distinct from indigenous forests, which are preserved for their ecological value.
