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Kenya Forest Service seeks public views on proposed airstrip in Meru Forest
07th July, 2026 12:49 PM
The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has invited members of the public to submit their views on a proposed airstrip and supporting infrastructure planned for Kithoka Beat in Meru Forest Station, Meru County.
In a public notice, issued on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, the agency said the project is intended to improve aviation access for forest management, emergency response and regional economic development.
KFS said members of the public and other stakeholders have until July 21, 2026, to submit their comments, concerns and recommendations on the proposed development.
Airstrip to enhance forest management
According to the notice, the proposed project will be located at Upper Imenti Forest within Meru Forest Station and will include the construction of a runway, apron and other ancillary infrastructure.
“The Kenya Forest Service proposes to construct an airstrip and ancillary infrastructure at Upper Imenti Forest (Meru Forest Station) to enhance aviation access for forest management, emergency response, and regional economic development,” the notice stated.
Preliminary site surveys and wind assessments have already been completed, with the proposed location found to be suitable for the project.
The development is expected to occupy about 11 hectares, with the selected site consisting mainly of sparse vegetation.
Project expected to have minimal environmental impact
The agency noted that the characteristics of the proposed site are expected to reduce the project’s impact on the surrounding environment.
“The proposed airstrip and ancillary infrastructure will occupy approximately 11 hectares. The project site is characterised by sparse vegetation cover and is therefore expected to result in minimal ecological disruption,” KFS stated.
KFS said the project is being undertaken in line with legal requirements that require public participation before major developments are implemented.
The public participation exercise is being conducted in line with constitutional and legal requirements that allow residents and other stakeholders to contribute to projects that may affect them before implementation begins.
How to submit your views
Residents, conservation groups and other interested parties have been asked to submit their written views to the County Forest Conservator’s Office in Meru Town. They can also download a public participation questionnaire from the KFS website and submit it to the same office or through the email address provided in the notice.
“The Kenya Forest Service invites members of the public and other stakeholders to submit their views, comments, concerns, and recommendations regarding the proposed construction of an airstrip including the runway, apron, and ancillary infrastructure,” KFS stated.
The agency concluded by saying all submissions will be treated with confidentiality and must be received on or before July 21, 2026. It also encouraged anyone seeking further information about the proposed project to contact the Kenya Forest Service for clarification.
