OL KALOU, Kenya — The Environment and Lands Court in Ol Kalou has imposed nationwide restrictions on the planting of eucalyptus trees near water sources and neighbouring properties, citing the species’ destructive impact on the country’s water resources.
Justice Mugo Kamau ruled that eucalyptus trees must be planted at least 30 metres away from rivers, lakes, wetlands, dams, streams, ponds, and oceans, and 10 metres from adjacent plots.
He further directed Parliament to enact a law regulating eucalyptus cultivation within 12 months, warning that interim rules will govern planting practices until such legislation is in place.
“For avoidance of doubt, these orders shall apply nationwide, and the respondents must ensure compliance with the court’s judgment,” Justice Mugo stated.
The court also ordered that any eucalyptus trees planted within 30 metres of water bodies must be uprooted, and restricted cultivation in swampy areas, irrigated farmland, plots smaller than a quarter-acre, and regions receiving below 400mm of rainfall annually.
Court Gives Government 45 Days to Implement Orders
The government has been given 45 days to implement the judgment. The respondents in the case include the Cabinet Secretaries for Environment and Water, the Kenya Forest Service (KFS), the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), and the Attorney General.
The ruling follows a 2022 petition by environmental lawyer Wilfred Omariba, who argued that uncontrolled eucalyptus cultivation has drained rivers, lakes, and wetlands across several counties.
Omariba cited Kisii and Nyamira counties, where the widespread planting of blue gum trees has lowered water levels and worsened conflicts over water access.
“For over 40 years, eucalyptus trees have been planted under government supervision near wetlands and water catchment areas, yet no law regulates their growth,” Omariba said. “Kisii and Nyamira, once self-sufficient in food, now rely on imports from other counties. Eucalyptus trees are largely to blame.”
A Win for Water Security and Future Generations
Introduced to Kenya in 1902 to supply firewood for the Kenya-Uganda Railway, eucalyptus remains popular for poles, timber, and firewood due to its fast growth.
But environmentalists warn that its high water absorption rate and invasive roots threaten water security and neighbouring farms.
Omariba hailed the verdict as a “major victory for the environment and future generations,” saying it will help restore ecosystems strained by aggressive eucalyptus farming.
“People plant eucalyptus on boundaries and small plots, denying neighbours sunlight and destroying crops. This ruling will protect both livelihoods and nature,” he said.
Industry Calls for Balanced Implementation
The Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM) also welcomed the judgment but urged the government to offer farmers guidance on alternative species and sustainable practices.
KAM Timber and Furniture Sector Chair Kaberia Kamencu said eucalyptus’ dual root system—deep sinkers and shallow laterals—allows it to outcompete nearby plants and even damage walls and foundations.
“Farmers need guidance to balance tree planting with environmental safety,” Kamencu said. “We must promote responsible forestry rather than a blanket ban.”
Eucalyptus ranks as Kenya’s third most used timber, widely grown in Western Kenya, tea zones, and private estates despite ongoing policy restrictions.
