Why we must keep our hands off Karura Forest, whatever it takes

Karura Forest in Kiambu county. [File, Standard]

The last few days have been, for many nature lovers, a dreadful case of deja vu. The plans by the government to excise part of the world famous Karura Forest for construction of a dual carriageway along Kiambu Road, have rekindled memories of a dark past in Kenya's environmental governance.

Let me make it clear, Karura Forest is not just another fanciful preoccupation of overzealous environmentalists. This 1,041-hectare sanctuary is a vital ecological and cultural treasure that supports the health and well-being of millions of Nairobians.