The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has temporarily halted the construction of an eco-camp in the Sanctuary Block of Nairobi’s Ngong Road Forest, following public concerns and the need for further consultation.
The suspension was announced in a statement issued on May 17, with KFS emphasizing that the project had followed all required procedures and had received the necessary approvals.
“As of now, all activities relating to the development of the eco-camp stand suspended,” the Service said in a report by The Star.
The project, described by KFS as a tented facility built on semi-permanent infrastructure, has faced criticism from conservation advocates, including the Greenbelt Movement. A viral letter from the group alleged that a luxury hotel was being constructed in a protected area.
However, KFS disputed this characterization, asserting that the facility was in line with the Ngong Road Forest Green Master Plan, which designates the area for ecotourism.
“The master plan was developed, verified, and adopted by stakeholders following intensive public participation,” the agency said.
KFS stated that an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) was conducted as required by law and concluded that the development would not have a significant negative impact on the forest.
The area under construction is described as a glade, a natural clearing with no trees felled.
“This camp, comprising tents on semi-permanent infrastructure, is an approved development under the Ngong Road Forest Management Plan,” the statement read.
“A public participation process, conducted in collaboration with the Community Forest Association, garnered the endorsement of relevant stakeholders.”
KFS also indicated that security upgrades are underway in the Sanctuary Block, including the installation of an electric fence.
The Service attributed part of the backlash to internal disagreements within the Ngong Road Forest Association, which co-manages the forest with KFS.
According to the agency, a former applicant whose Green Kids Museum Project was denied due to licensing issues may be behind some of the criticism.
“The applicant was unable to proceed with the museum due to failure to meet the financial obligations of a Special Use License,” KFS said.
The controversy follows a similar incident earlier in the year when licenses for a proposed golf course and restaurant in Ngong Forest were suspended after public protests.
Then-Environment Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale intervened at the time, calling for a complete review of the approval process.
For outdoor hospitality professionals, the situation illustrates the importance of stakeholder engagement and transparent planning in nature-based tourism projects.
Navigating regulatory frameworks and local sentiment remains critical for developers aiming to operate within ecologically sensitive areas.