The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has dismissed as false and misleading an online petition opposing the recent move to shift Karura Forest revenue collection to the government’s eCitizen platform.
The petition, led by the Friends of Karura Forest (FKF) and signed by over 5,000 people by Sunday morning, claimed the change could expose the forest to insecurity, land grabbing, and job losses, while reversing years of conservation gains. It demanded a return to the previous system where the Community Forest Association (CFA) collected gate charges directly and used the proceeds to manage the forest.
KFS, however, countered the allegations, insisting the new system aligns with government policy and will not undermine conservation efforts.
“The decision to move revenue collection to the e-Citizen platform is informed by a Government directive. Gazette Notice No 16008 of 2022 directs all national government revenues received by national government entities be collected into the E-Citizen platform,” KFS said.
The agency assured the public that all other aspects of Karura’s joint co-management with the local community remain intact under the Forest Conservation and Management Act, 2016.
“Apart from changing the mode of revenue collection, all other aspects of joint co-management of Karura forest remain the same.”
KFS further clarified that Karura’s security remains guaranteed through an electric fence and regular patrols by forest rangers and community scouts. On claims of looming job losses, the agency termed them “false and misleading,” explaining that CFA employees would continue with their normal duties.
Additionally, KFS dismissed suggestions of possible land grabbing or encroachment as baseless, noting that reforms since 2007 have secured all gazetted forests.
The agency accused CFA leadership of spreading misinformation to stir unrest, pointing out that despite calls to boycott duties, visitors continue flocking to Karura.
“Despite efforts to spread false information to scare off visitors, the public has continued streaming into the forest to undertake various recreational activities,” KFS said, while urging the public to disregard the petition and seek clarification directly from the agency.
“Kenya Forest Service is committed to uphold high standards and to provide professional services within Karura forests to ensure it remains a premier urban green space.”
KFS reiterated its commitment to keeping Karura Forest open daily from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm, emphasizing its role as Nairobi’s leading urban green space.
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