Forestry PS: We Cannot Halt Development for Conservation

Forestry Principal Secretary Gitonga Mugambi defended government infrastructure projects in forests and protected areas. Kenya cannot pause its development agenda solely for conservation reasons, he said.

Mugambi spoke at a roundtable on sustainable forestry and climate resilience. He acknowledged the need for economic growth while protecting ecosystems. The balance remains delicate.

The comments came as disputes over developments in Nairobi National Park reached court. A site visit occurred amid tensions between conservationists and Kenya Wildlife Service.

Mugambi cautioned against what he called negative activism. Conservation should not serve personal interests or block essential projects. He cited the Talanta Sports City and Nairobi Animal Orphanage expansion as examples.

“This country needs Talanta, and we must build Talanta,” Mugambi emphasised. The orphanage also requires expansion for better animal welfare.

Conservation groups oppose the orphanage relocation. They argue alternative sites outside the park could serve the purpose without impacting natural habitat.

Nairobi National Park sits uniquely close to the capital. It faces repeated pressures from infrastructure and encroachment. Petitioners, numbering over 4,600, challenge ongoing developments.

Court proceedings included a site visit on Tuesday. Petitioners reported initial exclusion by armed personnel despite orders. Access came later after other parties completed their inspection.

Similar tensions appear elsewhere. In Imenti Forest, Meru County, works continue despite court orders. Activists oppose land excision for state projects.

Mugambi insisted the government pursues both development and conservation. Efforts include gazetting new forest areas and the 15 billion tree-growing campaign. About 1.8 billion trees have been planted so far.

Satellite data shows positive greening trends in recent years. The PS attributed this to national tree-planting drives.

Critics argue new planting does not offset loss of mature natural forests. Encroachment on existing ecosystems raises long-term concerns.

The Talanta Stadium project links to road works affecting Ngong Road Forest. Construction reportedly proceeds despite suspension orders in some areas.

Mugambi maintained the government seeks equilibrium. Development drives jobs and growth. Conservation protects biodiversity and climate resilience.

The forestry sector faces competing land demands. Agriculture, settlement and infrastructure all exert pressure. Finding sustainable solutions remains challenging.

Public participation and legal processes will shape outcomes. Court cases on specific projects could set precedents for future balance between development and conservation priorities.