Activists raise concern over cutting of trees in Watamu Park

Former and current state of Watamu Recreational Park in Kilifi County.

Activists have raised concerns over what they describe as unnecessary felling of trees within Watamu Recreational Park in Kilifi County, reportedly to create space for an affordable housing project.

Led by Vocal Africa chief executive officer Hussein Khalid, the activists said they were not opposed to the housing project itself but insisted it should not come at the expense of the environment.

Khalid questioned the viability of the government’s 15 billion tree-growing campaign if such practices continue, and called the attention of campaign ambassador Truphena Muthoni to the situation.

“The same government that is saying it wants to plant 15 billion trees is the one destroying a park and cutting down trees. Truphena Muthoni, please come to Watamu and hug these trees. Maybe then the government will listen,” he said.

Khalid shared aerial view photographs of the park, one taken during its earlier years showing dense tree cover, and another depicting its current state, where large sections of bare ground are visible with minimal vegetation.

Former state of Watamu Recreational Park in Kilifi countyCurrent state of Watamu Recreational Park in Kilifi county

Khalid said the park is composed largely of indigenous trees that have stood there for decades, with some estimated to be more than a century old.

“Let it be clear that we are not opposed to the affordable housing project in Watamu. What we are opposed to is the unnecessary removal of trees in Watamu Park. It’s not like there is no other land for the affordable housing project. There is plenty in the vicinity. It’s just unnecessary destruction of a park,” he said.

Speaking on Monday in Malindi, Khalid said the activists have filed a petition in court seeking to pause the project until public participation is conducted and the concerns of the local community are considered.

“We are demanding that the project must have public participation, where NEMA and the people of Watamu will be fully involved in deciding what needs to be done. And we are asking the government, if you truly want the affordable housing project to be done, please do it somewhere else,” he added.

Activists speaking in Malindi on Monday after filing a petition against the destruction of Watamu Recreational Park. /SCREENGRAB

The activists said they had not been paid by anyone to oppose the project, noting that their actions were motivated by a commitment to environmental conservation and support for the vision to plant 15 billion trees by 2032.

Watamu residents also welcomed the housing project but said alternative land should be identified and the park spared.

“We are very glad, but this area is the only one in Watamu with trees. This is where the homeless and mentally ill people come to rest. This is where church congregants park their vehicles, so we are asking the government to leave this place for us,” one resident said.

“We have large tracts of land in Watamu, and we know the government can afford to buy land in places like Jacaranda, Kanani, Uyombo, Tabaso and Gede,” she added.