KWS Veterinary and Capture Unit relocates a troublesome bull elephant from Kithoka Village near Imenti Forest, Meru County, to Tsavo East National Park/file
The Green Belt Movement (GBM) has raised concerns over reports of proposed developments within sections of Meru's Imenti Forest, warning that the projects could have implications for one of the country's key water towers and forest ecosystems.
Efforts to obtain comments from the Ministry of Forestry, the Kenya Forest Service and the Meru County Government were ongoing.
The environmental lobby said it had previously opposed proposals to establish a State Lodge and golf course within Imenti Forest, citing environmental concerns.
In a statement, GBM said it had become aware of correspondence dated May 6, 2026, relating to a request for a Special User Licence associated with the construction of a section of the Meru Bypass under the Horn of Africa Gateway Development Project, which is financed by the International Development Association of the World Bank.
According to the organisation, the proposed road project involves the use of approximately 2.75 hectares of Imenti Forest.
GBM said it was seeking greater clarity on the nature and scope of any proposed developments within the forest and their potential environmental impact.
The lobby argued that public forests play a critical role as water catchments, biodiversity habitats and climate-regulating ecosystems that require protection for future generations.
The organisation also referenced recent amendments to the Forest Conservation and Management Act, saying environmental groups had previously expressed concern that expanded powers relating to easements and wayleaves in public forests could affect the long-term protection of forested areas.
GBM maintained that any proposed change of land use within public forests should comply fully with constitutional requirements, environmental laws and public participation processes.
The group questioned how projects such as an airstrip, golf course or State Lodge would align with forest conservation objectives and called for public disclosure of any plans relating to Imenti Forest and Kambakia Forest.
GBM further urged the World Bank and other development partners involved in the Horn of Africa Gateway Development Project to undertake due diligence and ensure that project financing does not adversely affect protected forest ecosystems.
The organisation said the late environmentalist Professor Wangari Maathai had consistently advocated for the protection of Kenya's forests and sustainable development practices.
GBM called for the immediate publication of all plans, approvals and assessments related to the reported developments and urged Parliament, the National Land Commission, environmental regulators and civil society groups to remain engaged in discussions concerning the future of the forest.
The organisation said it would continue to advocate for the protection of Imenti Forest and other public forests across the country.
