Green Belt Movement Statement on Building of Hotel Inside Ngong Road Forest

The Green Belt Movement (GBM) writes to express our deep concern and seek immediate clarification regarding reports of an ongoing construction of a luxury hotel within the Ngong Road Forest, adjacent to the sanctuary.

As you are aware, Ngong Road Forest is a critical ecological and biodiversity resource in Nairobi. It provides essential ecosystem services including carbon sequestration, air purification, water catchment protection, and serves as an important recreational and educational green space for the city's residents. It is also home to diverse flora and fauna, some of which are endangered.

It has come to our attention that a private developer has begun construction within this forest area. This development, if confirmed, raises serious environmental, legal, and ethical concerns. In light of the above, we respectfully demand the following information from your office:

1. The identity of the developer undertaking construction within the Ngong Road Forest. 2. A detailed outline of the process through which the said developer was granted access and/or rights to carry out any form of construction within a protected forest area. 3. A copy of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Report and license as issued by the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), if any, with respect to this project.

To, Mr. Alex Lemarkoko
The Chief Conservator of Forests
Kenya Forest Service