The Kenya Forest Service has dismissed social media claims that a section of Menengai Crater Forest has been grabbed. The agency states that forest boundaries remain intact, with no private developer takeover. The confusion arises from ongoing fencing works as part of a conservation project funded by the African Development Bank.
The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) issued a statement on Friday, November 7, 2025, to dispel social media claims that a section of Menengai Crater Forest in Nakuru County has been grabbed. The agency insists no part of the gazetted forest has been taken over by private developers, with boundaries remaining intact as verified by KFS surveyors.
“The Kenya Forest Service categorically refutes all allegations of land grabbing in the Menengai Crater area. The forest boundaries are well demarcated and remain intact, as verified by KFS surveyors,” the service stated.
According to KFS, the confusion stems from ongoing fencing works around the forest, which some have mistaken for private land demarcation. The referenced area lies outside the gazetted forest boundary and is not part of the protected land.
The fencing is part of a legitimate conservation project fully funded by the African Development Bank through the GreenZones Development Support Project Phase II. It covers approximately 55 kilometres around 6,014 hectares of Menengai Forest, aiming to enhance protection, deter unlawful activities, and ensure safety for visitors and nearby communities.
Before starting, all required procedures were followed, including public participation for transparency and community involvement. Menengai Forest plays a vital role in sustaining biodiversity, supporting eco-tourism, and serving as a key water catchment area for Nakuru County and surroundings.
“The Service calls upon the public to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious activities in or near forest areas to the nearest KFS office,” it added. KFS has assured measures are in place to safeguard forests like Menengai amid rising concerns over attempts to grab protected green spaces nationwide.