KFS Responds After eCitizen and Price Controversy at Karura Forest

The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has responded to growing public criticism following the recent changes at Karura Forest, particularly regarding the shift of payments to the eCitizen platform and the status of forest staff.
In a statement on Monday, September 1, the KFS clarified that operations at Karura Forest remained normal and smooth, with rangers working alongside community scouts from the Friends of Karura Forest (FKF) to manage access points and provide security.
The agency further emphasised that despite the wholesome changes being experienced, there was no disruption in forest safety or access, with Kenyans being urged to enjoy the popular natural resource.
”KFS confirms that all security and forest operations remain unchanged, with rangers and community scouts working hand in hand to ensure the safety of both the environment and its visitors. The public is encouraged to continue enjoying the forest, which remains a leading model for sustainable urban conservation in Africa,” a statement from KFS said.
Karura Forest, which covers over 1000 hectares, has served as a peaceful retreat and conservation symbol in the country since its protection in the 1990s by Nobel Peace Prize winner Professor Wangari Maathai.
However, in recent weeks, the KFS has come under criticism over the handling of the forest’s operations, with the eCitizen platform replacing the previous system, which was managed jointly alongside the Friends of Karura Forest (FKF).
The Friends of Karura Forest hassince raised concerns about a lack of consultation, a sudden takeover of gate operations, and a rise in entry fees due to added platform charges and VAT, vowing to take legal action on the matter.
The group estimated that Kenyans were now paying Ksh174 for adults, up from Ksh100, and Ksh116 for children to access the forests, more than double the previous Ksh50 rate.
“We are shocked by the entrance fee increase, which could stop Kenyans from enjoying one of the largest urban forests in the world,” said FKF board member Prof. Karanja Njoroge.
FKF also expressed concern about the fate of over 120 regular staff and more than 400 casual workers, most of them from nearby communities, who were employed under the previous Joint Management Agreement.
But the KFS, in a subtle rejoinder, insisted the new system was part of national reforms to improve transparency, efficiency and service delivery not only among them but across all public institutions.
“This policy is mandatory and must be adhered to without exception as part of broader efforts to enhance transparency, accountability, and efficient service delivery across all government institutions,” KFS said.
Further, KFS reaffirmed that the forest’s community-oriented model was still in place, hinting that there was still an ongoing cooperation with the Friends of Karura Forest, particularly around discussions on conservation, safety and community engagement.
On Monday, top KFS officials, including the Chief Conservator of Forests Alex Lemarkoko and Nairobi Regional Forest Conservator Joyce Nthuku, visited the site to oversee coordination and calm public concern.