Environment Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has directed the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) to suspend the license for the development of a golf range, restaurant, and golf park in Ngong Road Forest.
The move follows a massive uproar by Kenyans on social media over the encroachment of this crucial ecosystem.
On June 14, 2024, the Kenya Forest Service issued a special issue license to Karura Golf Range Limited to develop, operate, and manage a restaurant, golf range, and mini golf park within the forest.
Last month, NEMA issued a license for the implementation of the project after certifying the Environment Impact Assessment Project Report submitted by a private developer.
In addition to the order for license revocation, CS Duale ordered the Director General of NEMA and the Chief Conservation of Forests to prepare a brief on the issue within three days.
“My office will provide a way forward on the matter that has attracted great public interest after the briefing by the CCF and the Director General of NEMA,” noted Duale in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
KFS was also ordered to refrain from issuing additional special licenses. The CS noted that all licenses previously granted will be audited in due course to ensure accountability and transparency.
Ngong Road Forest is one of the few natural forests in Kenya’s capital, Nairobi. Situated along Ngong Road, the forest covers a total area of 1,224 Ha.
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