Gov’t Confirms Construction Of A Hotel Inside Ngong Forest
The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has denied charges by the Green Belt Movement (GBM) that the construction of a posh hotel in Ngong Forest is illegal.
In a statement issued on Friday, May 16, KFS confirmed that the camp, which consists of tents atop semi-permanent infrastructure, was allowed under the Ngong Road Forest Management Plan.
According to the Forest Service, a detailed Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) was completed prior to the camp’s establishment license being awarded.
Similarly, KFS claimed that a public interaction was held in collaboration with the Community Forest Association, gaining the support of relevant parties.
PRESS RELEASE!
— Kenya Forest Service (@KeForestService) May 16, 2025
Clarification on Development in Ngong Road Forest. pic.twitter.com/a42ZVSnN8i
“The Sanctuary block of Ngong Road Forest is currently undergoing significant enhancements, including the installation of an electric fence to bolster its security, enhance natural regeneration, and provide controlled access to the forest block,” KFS reiterated.
While addressing the issue, the government body stated that the ongoing development within the forest aimed to provide a premium green place for Nairobi residents.
It will help relieve the significant visitor demand on Karura Forest.
They said that the building of the lavish camp recently obtained financial support from a local bank, which committed Ksh200 million to help with construction.
KFS stated that after the construction is completed, it will impose rigorous conditions on people wishing to spend time within the camps.
The agency stated that fees would be paid directly through government payment networks.
In the news conference, the Forest Service accused the Greenbelt Movement of disseminating false information to influence public opinion on the status of Ngong Road Forest.
“KFS notes with concern that the Greenbelt Movement, a long-standing partner, is disseminating what appears to be misleading information,” the agency lamented.
“This information risks inciting public discontent regarding the status of Ngong Road Forest.”
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To address outstanding issues, Kenyans with concerns were asked to seek clarification from the Kenya Forest Service to confirm facts and improve the distribution of accurate information.
KFS’ response comes a day after the Greenbelt Movement expressed worry about reports of encroachment into the popular forest.
🚨Dear Kenyans, a luxury hotel is being built inside Ngong Road Forest—next to the sanctuary. Who approved this? Where is the EIA? Was the public consulted? @KeForestService must urgently explain how a forest reserve is being handed to private developers. #SaveNgongForest 🌳 pic.twitter.com/EyMSo07dyN
— Green Belt Movement (@GreenBeltMovmnt) May 15, 2025
The campaign sent a letter warning of the hazards posed by the encroachment on protected forests.
The Greenbelt Movement asked that the KFS identify the developer and explain the process by which the developer was granted permission to build the camp.
Gov’t Confirms Construction Of A Hotel Inside Ngong Forest
