Kenya Forest clarifies reports on grabbing of Menengai Crater land
By Paulette Mboga, November 7, 2025The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has dismissed reports circulating on social media claiming that land within the Menengai Crater area in Nakuru County has been grabbed.
The agency, on Friday, November 7, 2025, clarified on X that no part of the gazetted Menengai Forest has been taken over, stating that the forest boundaries remain intact and properly marked.
According to KFS, surveyors have verified that the area being referenced in the viral reports lies outside the gazetted Menengai Forest boundary. The Service said the boundaries are clearly demarcated and remain protected under the Forest Conservation and Management Act, 2016.
Legitimate fencing project under scrutiny
KFS explained that the ongoing Menengai Forest Fencing Project is a legitimate conservation initiative aimed at protecting and preserving the forest. The project, which is funded by the African Development Bank through the GreenZones Development Support Project Phase II, covers approximately 55 kilometres around 6,014 hectares of forest.
The agency said all required procedures were followed before the project began, including public participation and stakeholder consultations, to ensure transparency and community involvement.
The fencing project, KFS noted, is meant to prevent encroachment, enhance safety, and promote better forest management for the benefit of the surrounding communities.
It also helps strengthen environmental conservation and supports biodiversity and eco-tourism activities in the area. Menengai Forest plays a vital role in water catchment, supports local livelihoods, and contributes to environmental and economic sustainability in Nakuru County.
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KFS refutes grabbing claims
KFS has strongly refuted claims of land grabbing, insisting that the fencing initiative is part of Kenya’s ongoing efforts to safeguard public forests. The Service described the reports circulating online as misleading and urged the public to seek accurate information before spreading unverified claims.
“KFS categorically refutes all allegations of land grabbing and reiterates its unwavering commitment to conserving and protecting Kenya’s public forests in line with the Forest Conservation and Management Act, 2016,” the agency said in its statement.
The service also called on Kenyans to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activities near forested areas to the nearest KFS office. It reiterated its commitment to conserving and protecting Kenya’s forests as part of its national duty to uphold environmental integrity.