Ban on logging extended for six months

The 90-day ban has been extended for further six months, Environment CS Keriako Tobiko has said.

According to him, the move will allow the sector to get back on track in regulating the wanton felling of trees that is threatening Kenya’s ecosystem.

It is also expected that the appointment of the   Kenya Forest Service(KFS) Board and the interim reform implementations committee will also be finalized.

In a report, the task force on management of forest resources called for an audit into the lifestyle of the Board members and other senior officials.

The report which called for review of logging licenses was presented last week and its recommendations are still being implemented.

Commercial charcoal production and transportation is said to have caused massive deforestation in many parts of Kenya.

In Kitui County, Governor Charity Ngilu banned the banning of charcoal citing dealers who have depleted forest coverage in the area leading to water shortage.

In Nyeri County, Governor Mutahi Kahiga expressed concerns over the high rate of deforestation at the Aberdare Forest terming it a “pathetic’ situation.

Deputy President William Ruto suspended logging in all forests in the country on February 26, as parts of efforts by the government to respond to the drought situation at the time.