Alarm raised over lack of forest laws
Tabowa Rock, one of the highest points in North Nandi forest. Forests in the country might be endangered due to failure by county assemblies to pass laws to protect them. PHOTO | MARY MBENGE |
What you need to know:
- With only one year to go before expiry of the three-year transition period, there is concern that the other 46 counties might enact the laws in a hurry, failing to address pertinent issues facing the sector.
Forests in the country might be endangered due to failure by county assemblies to pass laws to protect them.
Only Kitui County has enacted laws to protect forests, a forum on preparedness of Coast and north eastern counties was told Wednesday.
The function was devolved to counties.
With only one year to go before expiry of the three-year transition period, there is concern that the other 46 counties might enact the laws in a hurry, failing to address pertinent issues facing the sector.
CHALLENGES
“The rest of the devolved units are in various stages of legislation and we urge them to fast-track the process. We must work together to ensure we protect our forests,” said Kenya Forest Service Acting Director Emilio Mugo.
Forests face the threat of destruction by illegal loggers and charcoal burning. Mr Mugo noted that besides lack of enough staff, counties had a challenge coming up with relevant documentation and regulations that will ensure proper protection of forests and utilisation of the resource.
