The government has reiterated the need for the multi-agency security teams, headed by the Rift Valley Regional Commissioner, to carry out the operation to reclaim sections of Mau Forest Complex from encroachment and illegal logging activities.
According to Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry Principal Secretary Festus Ngeno, the Ministry will carry out the operation humanely to avoid actions that may lead to loss of lives, destruction of property, and displacement of genuine forest adjacent communities.
The PS says plans are underway to delineate forest boundaries and work with state and non-state partners to fence off the forest so as to deter future violations.
Besides the Mau Forest Complex, the multi-agency security operation to end forest crimes that include encroachment, illegal logging and charcoal burning will be extended to all forest ecosystems across the country.
“We urge Kenyans across the country to continue supporting the Government’s broad Climate Action agenda by reporting suspected forest crimes through the Ministry’s toll-free hotline, 0800724570.” PS Ngeno said.
