Clarification on Allegations of Land Grabbing in Menengai Crater
The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has issued a formal statement to address recent allegations circulating on social media regarding land grabbing in the Menengai Crater area, which is part of the Menengai Forest Station located in Nakuru County. The agency has firmly denied these claims, emphasizing that no portion of the gazetted Menengai Forest has been illegally acquired.
In a statement released on Friday, KFS confirmed that the forest boundaries are well demarcated and remain intact, as verified by their surveyors. “No part of the gazetted Menengai Forest has been grabbed. The forest boundaries are well demarcated and remain intact, as verified by KFS surveyors,” the agency stated. It further clarified that the area referenced in the reports lies outside the officially gazetted forest boundary.
The confusion surrounding the allegations has been attributed to misinformation. KFS stressed the importance of verifying facts before spreading unsubstantiated claims. The agency also provided details about the ongoing Menengai Forest Fencing Project, which it described as a legitimate conservation initiative.
Menengai Forest Fencing Project
The Menengai Forest Fencing Project is funded by the African Development Bank through the GreenZones Development Support Project Phase II. The project involves the installation of approximately 55 kilometers of fencing around 6,014 hectares of forest land. “The Menengai Forest Fencing Project is a legitimate conservation initiative funded by the African Development Bank,” KFS stated. “All requisite procedures, including public participation and stakeholder consultations, were duly conducted.”
This initiative aims to strengthen forest protection, deter encroachment, and enhance safety for visitors and surrounding communities. The project is part of broader efforts to ensure the sustainable management of Kenya’s natural resources.
Ecological and Social Significance of Menengai Forest
Menengai Forest holds significant ecological and social value. It plays a vital role in water catchment, biodiversity conservation, eco-tourism, and supporting local livelihoods. “Menengai Forest plays a vital environmental, economic, and social role by supporting water catchment, biodiversity, eco-tourism, and local livelihoods,” the statement read.
KFS reiterated its commitment to forest protection and compliance with national legislation. “KFS categorically refutes all allegations of land grabbing and reiterates its unwavering commitment to conserving and protecting Kenya’s public forests in line with the Forest Conservation and Management Act, 2016,” the agency affirmed.
Public Engagement and Reporting
The service urged members of the public to remain alert and proactive in safeguarding forest resources. “We urge the public to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious activities in or near forest areas to the nearest KFS office,” KFS added.