5,000 acres of indigenous forest lost

By PAUL GITAU

Tana-River, Kenya: Charcoal burners and loggers have invaded Wachu Ranch Forest in Garsen, Tana River county, and their activities have destroyed thousands of acres of indigenous forest.

 Also not spared are huge numbers of wildlife that have been killed by poachers at the ranch, which is also a wildlife corridor from Tsavo East National Park.

The ranch’s Vice Chair, Galgalo Shambaro, said they have reported the matter to relevant government authorities but nothing has been done.

“We believe the poachers, charcoal and timber dealers are in cahoots with some government officials,” he said.

Shambaro said the ranch has a total acreage of 28,911 hectares and more than 5,000 acres have been destroyed.

He appealed to the government to urgently intervene and save the forest which is under threat.

Deputy County Commissioner Mike Kimoko confirmed the incidences but denied that government officials are protecting those engaged in the illegal activities.

“We have taken relevant steps and KWS rangers are already on the ground,” he said.