Kenya’s vital forest ecosystems are facing unprecedented destruction, with vast swathes of protected woodlands being cleared for infrastructure projects and private developments. Environmental groups like Greenpeace warn that iconic forests – including Suam, Oloolua, Karura, and Aberdare – could lose thousands of acres to construction despite government pledges to increase tree cover.
The looming destruction comes even as President William Ruto champions a 15-billion-tree-planting campaign to combat climate change. Environmentalists and activists argue that new seedlings cannot replace mature forests, which sustain biodiversity, regulate water cycles, and store carbon.
“We’ve seen this before with Mau Forest, where carbon offset schemes led to massive deforestation,” said a Greenpeace Africa campaigner. “Promising tree planting while allowing forest destruction is hypocrisy.”
In 2023, public pressure forced the government to reinstate a logging ban after widespread outcry. Now, activists are calling on citizens to demand stronger protections before it’s too late.
Take climate action now: Sign Greenpeace Africa’s petition to halt forest destruction. The time to act is now—once these forests are gone, they may never recover.
Add a Comment