A push by the Green Belt Movement has led to the suspension of a planned eco-camp in Nairobi's Ngong forest, following public outcry over its legality, transparency and environmental impact.
On Saturday, the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) halted all construction activities linked to the project after growing anger from conservationists, residents and the wider public. "This is a significant and necessary first step in upholding the integrity of one of Nairobi's most important urban green spaces.
We welcome the decision by the Chief Conservator of Forests to halt all construction activities within the Ngong Road Forest," said the Green Belt Movement in a statement.
The project had drawn backlash across social media, airwaves and community meetings, with questions raised over whether a public forest was being quietly handed over to private interests. "There are public concerns of destruction or grabbing of the forest.
