NAIROBI, Kenya – A Lands court has temporarily halted the state’s plans to expand Kiambu Road, citing potential threats to the Karura Forest ecosystem.
Justice Anne Omollo of the Environment and Lands Court issued the order following a December 10 petition by the Green Belt Movement (GBM).
The group challenged the government’s proposal to carve out 51 acres of the iconic forest to facilitate the road’s dualing and the construction of a recreational facility and ablution block.
In her ruling, Justice Omollo prohibited any construction activities linked to the project until the case is heard and determined.
She further allowed the Katiba Institute, a constitutional rights advocacy group, to join the case as an interested party. The matter is set for hearing on February 3, 2024.
“The respondents are hereby prohibited from carrying out the planned construction or any other activity related to the construction…affecting Karura Forest Reserve,” Justice Omollo ruled.
The Green Belt Movement argues that the government bypassed mandatory environmental safeguards, including securing an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) license.
The organization warns that the forest, a critical urban green space and biodiversity hotspot, is at risk if the expansion proceeds.
“This plan threatens the existence of the Karura Forest ecosystem and violates environmental laws,” GBM said in court filings.
Karura Forest, a symbol of conservation efforts in Kenya, has faced numerous development threats over the years but remains a sanctuary for flora, fauna, and city residents seeking respite from urban sprawl.
Environmentalists have lauded the court’s decision as a vital step in safeguarding the forest’s future.
Justice Anne Omollo of the Environment and Lands Court issued the order following a December 10 petition by the Green Belt Movement (GBM).
The group challenged the government’s proposal to carve out 51 acres of the iconic forest to facilitate the road’s dualing and the construction of a recreational facility and ablution block.
In her ruling, Justice Omollo prohibited any construction activities linked to the project until the case is heard and determined.
She further allowed the Katiba Institute, a constitutional rights advocacy group, to join the case as an interested party. The matter is set for hearing on February 3, 2024.
“The respondents are hereby prohibited from carrying out the planned construction or any other activity related to the construction…affecting Karura Forest Reserve,” Justice Omollo ruled.
The Green Belt Movement argues that the government bypassed mandatory environmental safeguards, including securing an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) license.
The organization warns that the forest, a critical urban green space and biodiversity hotspot, is at risk if the expansion proceeds.
“This plan threatens the existence of the Karura Forest ecosystem and violates environmental laws,” GBM said in court filings.
Karura Forest, a symbol of conservation efforts in Kenya, has faced numerous development threats over the years but remains a sanctuary for flora, fauna, and city residents seeking respite from urban sprawl.
Environmentalists have lauded the court’s decision as a vital step in safeguarding the forest’s future.
