The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has addressed recent public concern surrounding the construction of a bush eco-camp in Ngong Road Forest, stating that the proj
ect is a legally sanctioned development under the Ngong Road Forest Management Plan. The statement came in response to a letter from the Greenbelt Movement, a prominent environmental organization, which alleged the construction of a luxury hotel within the forest.
According to KFS, the bush camp comprises tents on semi-permanent structures and forms part of a broader initiative to upgrade the Sanctuary block within the forest.
The upgrade includes enhanced infrastructure, such as the installation of an electric fence to bolster security, regulate access, and support natural regeneration.
The agency emphasized that the project adhered to environmental regulations before receiving approval. “Prior to the issuance of the license for the camp, a comprehensive EIA report was prepared in accordance with established laws and procedures.
Furthermore, a public participation process, conducted in collaboration with the Community Forest Association, garnered the endorsement of relevant stakeholders,” added the KFS.
KFS also stated the development aims to offer Nairobi residents access to high-quality green spaces, helping to relieve pressure on Karura Forest, which currently receives over 80,000 monthly visitors.
The I&M Foundation is contributing approximately Sh200 million to the development of the Sanctuary block.
This partnership is part of KFS’s broader engagement with forest-adjacent communities and development partners, which the agency says is aligned with its sustainable forest management goals.
Additionally, new financial guidelines have been introduced across all forests managed by KFS, The Eastleigh Voice.
“The Kenya Forest Service is implementing strict fiscal regulations that require all payments for forest resources, including visitor access, venue hire, licenses, and fees, to be made exclusively through government-approved payment platforms,” it noted.
In its response to the Greenbelt Movement’s letter, KFS warned that the claims could mislead the public.
“KFS notes with concern that the Greenbelt Movement, a long-standing partner, is disseminating what appears to be misleading information. This information risks inciting public discontent regarding the status of Ngong Road Forest,” the statement read.
The agency urged the public to seek clarification directly from KFS on any matters concerning gazetted forests to avoid misinformation.
For outdoor hospitality stakeholders, this development underscores the growing trend of eco-friendly tourism initiatives within protected areas, highlighting the importance of aligning such projects with legal frameworks and community engagement.
For business owners in the glamping and eco-tourism sectors, the project offers a case study in balancing environmental conservation with visitor access and commercial opportunity.