The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has commenced an ambitious project to replace exotic tree species with indigenous varieties at the iconic Karura Forest.
The event, which took place today, was presided over by Madam Joyce Nthuku, the Regional Forest Conservator for Nairobi, who underscored the urgent need to preserve Kenya’s native biodiversity.
During the ceremony, approximately 300 different species of indigenous trees were planted, marking a significant milestone in the rejuvenation of the forest.
This effort is aimed at enhancing the long-term sustainability of the ecosystem and restoring Karura to its original state prior to the introduction of non-native species.
The planting ceremony was attended by key stakeholders, including the Chairman of the Friends of Karura Forest (CFA) and several environmental advocates, all of whom have shown steadfast support for this vital conservation project.
Their collective efforts reflect a strong commitment to safeguarding the environment and fostering community involvement in ecological initiatives.
The project comes in response to recent public outrage over videos circulating online that showed KFS rangers cutting down trees in Karura Forest and loading the logs onto trucks. Many Kenyans expressed concerns that these actions were part of a broader agenda to seize land from Karura or to pave the way for infrastructural development.
