Karura Forest, Nairobi’s most famous green space, is caught in a heated dispute. The State Department of Forestry has taken over management from the Friends of Karura Community Forest Association (FKFCFA), sparking concern among conservationists and community leaders.
Many fear the move could undo years of progress and weaken the public trust that made Karura a model of community-led conservation.
A Community Success Story at Risk
For over 15 years, FKFCFA partnered with the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) to protect Karura. Together, they created safe trails, preserved biodiversity, and provided jobs for residents of Huruma, Githogoro, Runda, and Muthaiga.
“Guns never protected Karura forest reserve, and they won’t. It’s the people who always have, and always will,” said Karura Ward MCA Fiu Nifiu. He argued that government should build on this success, not dismantle it.
Roads Inside the Forest Spark Backlash
The takeover coincides with plans to build tarmac roads in Karura. Conservationists say this destroys the forest’s identity as a sanctuary for nature and recreation.
To them, the move betrays the spirit of Nobel Laureate Wangari Maathai, who led historic protests in the 1990s to stop Karura from being destroyed by developers.
Government Defends the Decision
Chief Conservator of Forests Alex Lemarkoko dismissed fears of disruption. He assured the public that jobs remain safe, budgets will be honoured, and visitors can still enjoy the forest.
“KFS is committed to developing the ecotourism potential of urban forests to ensure city dwellers enjoy serene green spaces,” he said.
A Bigger Question for Kenya’s Forests
Critics argue the takeover lacked public participation and undermines the Forests Act, which emphasizes community ownership. They warn that if the Karura model can be sidelined, other community-led forests could be next.
Karura is more than trees it is history, resistance, and a promise of greener cities. Whether that promise survives without community leadership is now the question facing Kenya’s conservation future.
