Tuesday, September 2, 2025 - The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has defended the construction of a tarmac road inside Karura Forest, a move that has triggered public uproar.
Speaking on Tuesday, September 2nd, 2025, Chief
Conservator of Forests, Alex Lemarkoko, said the road, which leads to the
rangers’ village, is consistent with the Participatory Forest Management Plan (PFMP).
The plan divides Karura into four zones - conservation,
ecotourism, plantation, and developed areas - allowing infrastructure within
the latter.
“The PFMP clearly provides for development in the ranger
village.”
“We are building a new headquarters and improving conditions
for our staff,” Lemarkoko said.
He explained that the tarmac will ensure safe movement,
particularly at night, and complements the ongoing refurbishment of ranger
houses, some of which are over five decades old.
The PFMP also requires the annual conversion of 15 hectares
of plantation land into indigenous forest.
Lemarkoko stressed that the road does not compromise
conservation goals since it lies within a designated development zone.
His remarks followed mounting concern over the sudden
tarmacking, with critics questioning whether consultation took place and
whether tarmac undermines the forest’s natural appeal.
Lemarkoko said the project was agreed upon with
stakeholders, including Friends of Karura, and is part of sustainable forest management.
“These improvements are structured, planned, and aligned
with the management framework to balance staff welfare with ecological
integrity,” he added.
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