The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has moved to reassure workers at Karura Forest that their jobs are secure and there will be no layoffs.
In a statement on Thursday, September 4, Chief Conservator of Forests Alex Lemarkoko confirmed that all budgetary provisions under the Community Forest Association’s (CFA) 2025/2026 work plan will be honoured to ensure continuity of employment.
The CFA workers are staff engaged by Friends of Karura Forest (FKF), a community-driven organisation that works hand in hand with KFS in managing and conserving the forest.
Lemarkoko, however, expressed concern that some employees including clerks, scouts, nursery attendants, and general maintenance staff have not reported back to work despite several reminders from management.
“The Service has informed the CFA leadership that all budgetary provisions in the approved annual work plan and budget for 2025/2026 will be honoured. We have also reassured all CFA employees of the continuity of their jobs, and I confirm that there will be no job losses,” Lemarkoko said.
He further assured Kenyans that operations at Karura Forest remain normal, with visitors continuing to enjoy its popular walking tracks, picnic spots, and green spaces.
“KFS is committed to unlocking the ecotourism potential of urban forests so that city residents can enjoy serene green environments. We call on all partners to support this effort,” he added.
The assurance comes just days after Lemarkoko raised concerns over alleged mismanagement of funds by Friends of Karura Forest.
Speaking in an interview on Tuesday, September 3, he claimed that an audit by the Ministry of Environment uncovered irregularities in FKF’s handling of revenue generated from the forest.
According to Lemarkoko, gate collections are supposed to be deposited into a KFS-approved bank account as required under Section 13 of the joint management agreement. However, FKF allegedly failed to comply with this and other financial rules.
“An audit was carried out by our ministry, and a number of issues were unveiled. You will be shocked at the kind of embezzlement of funds by FKF,” Lemarkoko alleged.
He added that FKF has also not been submitting its annual budgets and work plans to KFS for approval, despite the requirement being part of their agreement.
