Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) has defended its decision to cut down several trees within its compound following public criticism over the deaths and displacement of marabou storks.
In a statement on Sunday, the hospital said the trees had become a safety risk after years of ageing, with weak branches posing a danger to patients, staff, visitors and the birds nesting on them.
KNH said the African acacia trees, some of which were more than three decades old, had repeatedly shed large branches, causing damage to hospital infrastructure and vehicles.
The hospital also revealed that some marabou storks had previously died after being struck by falling branches, prompting a technical assessment that recommended the removal of the trees before the onset of the rainy season.
Chief Executive Officer Dr Richard Lesiyampe said the exercise was carried out purely as a safety measure.
“Following a technical assessment and in anticipation of the rainy season, the hospital undertook the removal of the hazardous trees as a necessary preventive safety measure,” he said.
The explanation comes after photos and videos showing injured and stranded marabou storks spread widely on social media, sparking criticism from Kenyans and conservationists who accused the hospital of destroying the birds’ habitat.
Responding to the backlash, KNH said it regrets the disruption caused to the birds and is working with relevant government agencies to rescue, relocate and protect the affected storks.
The hospital added that it will replace the felled trees with suitable species as part of efforts to restore the environment while maintaining safety within the facility.
