KFS clarifies Karura Forest payment changes after e-Citizen shift
By William Muthama, August 30, 2025The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has reassured visitors and service providers at Karura Forest that the new e-Citizen payment system will not interfere with the forest’s management, staffing, or overall visitor experience.
In a statement shared on Saturday, August 30, 2025, Chief Conservator of Forests, Alex Lemarkoko, said the shift is limited to the payment system.
“The only change is the payment platform itself; all other aspects of Karura Forest management will remain the same,” he said.
KFS said all staff, including scouts, clerks, cleaners, and contract employees, will continue under current arrangements. Visitors with annual passes can still use them until expiry, while new payments will now be processed via phone or card. The agency added that the system’s average wait time is just one minute.
Lemarkoko encouraged the public to engage with the service. “We urge visitors to provide feedback to help accelerate continuous improvement of services,” he said, noting that adjustments would be guided by user experience.
He further expressed appreciation to those who have overseen the change. “We thank the staff and scouts for their leadership in managing the transition process,” he said.
KFS has cleared the air with Friends of Karura Forest (FKF) management, reaffirming that the community association remains a central partner in the forest’s governance.
The agency stressed that joint management of Karura continues, despite concerns raised by FKF over the e-Citizen shift.
“The only change is the payment platform itself; all other aspects of forest management will remain the same,” the agency stated.
The changes follow a National Treasury directive requiring all government entities to phase out non-designated payment systems. Starting Friday, August 29, entry and parking fees at Karura, including the Sigiria block, must now be paid through the e-Citizen