In a decisive move aimed at preserving Kenya’s natural habitats, Environment Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya has instructed the Chief Conservator of Forests to rigorously enforce regulations governing grazing and grass harvesting in public forests.
Tuya’s directive underscores the government’s commitment to combat illegal activities that threaten the country’s environmental sustainability. The rules and regulations, already established, are designed to ensure responsible management of forest resources while safeguarding biodiversity and ecosystem health.
Illegal grazing and unauthorized grass harvesting have been identified as significant threats to Kenya’s forests, leading to soil erosion, habitat degradation, and loss of biodiversity. By implementing these regulations “to the letter,” as specified by Tuya, the Ministry of Environment aims to curb these detrimental practices and promote sustainable land use practices.
The Chief Conservator of Forests, tasked with overseeing this enforcement, will play a pivotal role in coordinating efforts to monitor and enforce compliance across all public forest areas. This includes conducting regular inspections, issuing fines or penalties for violations, and educating communities on the importance of conservation.
CS Soipan Tuya emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in preserving Kenya’s natural heritage, urging stakeholders, communities, and law enforcement agencies to collaborate in the effort to protect public forests. She highlighted the need for synergy between conservation efforts and economic activities, ensuring that sustainable practices benefit both present and future generations.
