The Green Belt Movement (GBM) has successfully halted the state’s plans to expand Kiambu Road by hiving off 51 acres from the Karura Forest Reserve.
Key Highlights
- Environmental Impact Concerns: GBM argues that the proposed road expansion lacks a valid environmental impact assessment (EIA) license.
- Legal Challenge: The group claims the project poses a severe threat to the Karura Forest ecosystem and violates environmental protection laws.
- Court Orders Suspension: Judge Anne Omollo of the Environment and Lands Court issued an order suspending all activities related to the road expansion until the matter is resolved.
Court Proceedings and Ruling
The Environment and Lands Court Judge issued the directive on December 10 after GBM filed an application challenging the project. According to the court order:
“The respondents are hereby prohibited from carrying out the planned construction or any activity related to the construction of the recreational facility, ablution block, and the dualing of Kiambu Road affecting Karura Forest Reserve, pending hearing and determination of the motion,” Judge Omollo stated.
The court also granted Katiba Institute the status of an interested party in the case and set the hearing for February 3, 2025.
Green Belt Movement’s Claims
GBM has raised serious concerns in its court filings, asserting that the road expansion project:
- Was planned without the legally mandated EIA license.
- Threatens the ecological integrity of the Karura Forest, which plays a vital role in Nairobi’s environmental sustainability.
- Involves allocations of protected forest land, allegedly conducted in violation of the law.
Impact on Karura Forest Ecosystem
Karura Forest is a critical green space in Nairobi, serving as a habitat for diverse flora and fauna while also acting as a carbon sink. Environmental activists argue that the proposed road expansion could disrupt the delicate balance of the ecosystem and lead to long-term environmental degradation.
Next Steps
The case will return to court on February 3, 2025, for further deliberation. Meanwhile, the court order ensures that no construction or related activities take place within the Karura Forest area until a final decision is made.
This development underscores the growing tension between infrastructure development and environmental conservation in Kenya, with groups like GBM standing firm in their mission to protect the country’s natural heritage.
Tags: Kiambu Road Expansion, Karura Forest Conservation, Green Belt Movement, Environmental Impact Assessment, Kenya Infrastructure Projects
