Construction begins on Imenti Forest airstrip despite court orders

Opponents have also questioned a recent public participation forum held to discuss the project, saying it proceeded despite a court order suspending it.

Proponents, however, argue that the airstrip is a critical infrastructure project that will unlock the region's economic potential, attract investment, boost trade and create employment opportunities for young people.

Meru County, located in the northern Mount Kenya region, is home to Imenti Forest, a gazetted ecosystem that serves as a major water tower and a crucial dry-season breeding sanctuary for elephants.

Beneath its vast canopy lies a growing dispute over plans to construct an airstrip within the forest.

A recent public participation forum organised to discuss the project turned chaotic.

Local artist and environmental activist Kamanu M'Tuamwari was forced to present his petition opposing the proposed construction amid heckling from supporters of the project. He later fled the venue after a section of participants allegedly attempted to attack him.

The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) says the proposed airstrip will improve aviation access for forest management operations, enhance emergency response and support regional economic development through increased investment and job creation.

"We are not opposed to development, but it has to be done wisely. It has to be done without undermining the environment," said one opponent.

"We should not behave as though we are the last generation on Earth. We can relocate buildings, airstrips and other infrastructure, but we cannot relocate an indigenous forest that has taken centuries to evolve. That is a priceless gift," another opponent said.

An aerial survey of the forest showed that work had already begun despite a court order halting the project until a petition challenging it is heard and determined.

Opponents are also questioning the legitimacy of the public participation exercise held on July 8, arguing that it proceeded despite being suspended by the court.

"This project has already started. Public participation is supposed to take place before implementation begins. Our question is whether this exercise was merely intended to sanitise decisions that had already been made," said one opponent.

"The public participation process did not begin yesterday. The airstrip project has been part of the Community Forest Association plan since 2022. Those claiming there was no public participation are ignoring that earlier process," said a supporter of the project.

The proposed airstrip and its supporting infrastructure are expected to occupy about 11 hectares within the forest.

KFS says the selected site has sparse vegetation and is therefore expected to have minimal ecological impact.

However, opponents claim the full scope of the project has not been disclosed to the public, alleging it also includes a State Lodge, a golf course and a luxury hotel.

"To date, we do not know the project cost. Public participation is not simply about saying yes or no. People should be able to give informed opinions based on information provided. We have not seen any blueprint, nor have we been told why Imenti Forest was chosen over alternative sites," said an opponent.

"This is where elephants come to give birth because of the availability of water. If this project proceeds, it will threaten their breeding grounds. Meru is large, and while we need development, it would be better to identify another location than cut down trees," another opponent said.

Area MP Rahim Dawood denied claims that he or his supporters were involved in the violence witnessed during the public participation forum.

"I told the residents that both the majority and the minority deserved to be heard. I wanted those opposing the project to speak, and I was the one who invited the two people who presented opposing views. However, the majority of those who attended want the airstrip to be built," said Dawood.

"We will stand firm as representatives of the people to ensure that the interests of those who elected us are respected, supported and protected," said the area MCA, Caleb Mutethia. 

"These are normal challenges encountered in any major project. We are confident the project will proceed, and we remain committed to complying with the law throughout the process," said Gitonga Mugambi, Forestry Principal Secretary.