Management blamed for illegal logging

By FREDRICK OBURA

The increase in illegal logging and charcoal burning in the Maasai Mau Forest has been blamed on the opening up of its management to different stakeholders.

Locals put the number of charcoal harvested from the northern part of the forest near olekirkirai at 500 bags per day.

Edward Tikani, the County Council of Narok Principal Administrator blamed zoning of the forest and distribution of its management to different stakeholders for the renewed destruction.

Maasai Mau has been divided into five main management zones with main intentions of creating buffer zones that provide for some human needs, and maintenance of the forest’s interior.

The management of the zones has been spread to different stakeholders including Kenya Wildlife Service, Administration Police, and some parts taken by County Council of Narok.

He noted that the communities were well aware of the forest’s importance and inclusion would complement conservation plans.