KWS refutes forest destruction claims in Nairobi park

The Kenya Wildlife Service has refuted claims on social media that it is destroying the upland forest in Nairobi National Park.

KWS described the claims by Friends of Nairobi National Park as misleading and clarified the work as part of a legal, planned relocation of the Nairobi Animal Orphanage.

It said the relocation is designed to improve wildlife conservation, animal welfare, visitor experience, and conservation education.

The current facility, which has operated since 1964, no longer meets modern standards, KWS said.

“Established in 1964, the Nairobi Animal Orphanage has played a central role in the rescue, rehabilitation and care of wildlife in distress for over 60 years,” the agency said.

“However, due to increasing visitor numbers, growing demand for wildlife rescue and evolving international standards on animal welfare, the current facility within Nairobi National Park no longer meets modern requirements.”

On Wednesday, Friends of Nairobi National Park shared a statement on social media alleging that the upland forest in Nairobi National Park is being destroyed and a parking lot for the Bomas International Convention Centre project is being built.

The group shared photos and videos on social media to support its claims and called for a stop of the actions.

“The upland forest in Nairobi National Park is being destroyed. Lions, rhinos, Maasai giraffes and nine other endangered species that inhabit these 100 acres of wildlife forest are being displaced,” the group said.

KWS, however, says the project follows the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act, 2013, which requires KWS to conserve and manage wildlife while upholding high standards of animal welfare.

The agency said the decision to relocate, first considered in 2013, is based on several reasons among them to ensure the facility meets internationally recognised animal welfare standards.

“The upgraded facility will include modern enclosures, a fully equipped veterinary and treatment unit, a wildlife hospital with surgical capabilities, nursery facilities for rescued animals and improved visitor amenities such as walkways, rest areas, sanitation facilities and organised parking,” KWS said.

“Learning and interpretation centres will help educate visitors about conservation, and sustainable waste management systems will be implemented.”

KWS said the project is expected to create more than 500 direct jobs and many more opportunities for service providers, particularly young Kenyans.

It said the old orphanage site will be restored and rewilded to protect Nairobi National Park’s ecosystem.