NAIROBI, Kenya- The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) says harvesting of mature tree plantations is underway on 56 hectares in the Kibiku Forest Block of Ngong Hills Forest, following a competitive tender process.
The clarification follows the circulation of videos and photographs on social media alleging illegal logging in the forest, including claims that trees were being cut at night.
KFS said the harvesting contract was awarded after competitive bidding and that the operation was being conducted under the laws and regulations governing forest management and public procurement.
The Service said the process complied with the Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Act 2015, the Forest Conservation and Management Act 2026, the Constitution and forest harvesting rules.
KFS said forest operations must take place between 6am and 6pm under the Forest Conservation and Management Act 2026.
The rules set the hours during which harvesting activities should be carried out.
The Service also said the Community Forest Association is normally involved in replanting after harvesting is completed.
Replanting is conducted through the Plantation Enterprise and Livelihood Improvement Scheme (PELIS), which involves communities in establishing and managing plantation trees.
KFS responds to photographs
The agency urged members of the public with concerns about forest harvesting and management to seek clarification from the nearest KFS station.
It also asked people to report suspicious activity to the nearest police station for investigation.
The statement comes amid heightened public attention on tree harvesting in Kenyan forests.
Kenyans have raised concerns over similar harvesting operations in the Aberdare Forest, where the Environment and Land Court has extended orders stopping logging and timber transportation while a case over the activities continues.
In the Aberdare case, the judge visited the Geta Forest Block and ordered that the suspension remain in force.
The court is due to issue further directions on November 11.
Authorised sawmillers have maintained that the work in the Aberdares is lawful plantation management, while petitioners have raised concerns about environmental damage and the forest’s role as a water catchment.
