A viral video showing parts of Karura Forest cleared of trees has stirred public concern, prompting the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) to explain the context behind the activity. The agency says the footage, which has been widely shared online, misrepresents a lawful and planned forest management exercise aimed at restoring the popular green space.

In a statement released on Friday, July 4, KFS said the video, reportedly recorded by a cyclist, captures areas where exotic trees were deliberately cleared. The agency said the activity is part of a broader reforestation programme under the 2024/2025 financial year, designed to enhance the natural state of the forest.

“This was a planned activity involving the removal of exotic trees to pave the way for the replanting of indigenous species,” the statement read. KFS also mentioned that preparations for reforestation, including hole-pitting, have already begun in anticipation of the rainy season.

The long-term goal of the initiative is to transform Karura into a fully indigenous forest that will serve recreation, conservation, and eco-tourism purposes. KFS maintains that the tree harvesting followed proper procedures and aligns with their environmental restoration strategy.

However, the agency’s explanation has not calmed growing unease online. Many Kenyans took to social media to accuse KFS of lacking transparency and failing to communicate with the public before beginning the exercise. Several users raised questions about the fate of the felled trees and the process used to manage the timber.

“You’re responsible for keeping the public informed on matters of such interest. Kenyans being concerned is a good thing. Don’t dismiss communication,” one user, @romiboke, posted.

Another questioned whether there had been any signage or public notice placed in the affected parts of the forest. Others demanded answers about how the harvested timber was handled.

"Was the timber sold, donated, or auctioned? Who got it? Can the public access it?" another user asked.

In response to the criticism, KFS encouraged the public to seek information directly from its offices and avoid relying on unverified online posts.

The agency also reaffirmed its dedication to protecting Karura and emphasized that all actions were carried out in line with environmental and legal standards.

Karura Forest, located within Nairobi, is one of the capital’s most visited natural spaces. It serves as a vital recreational area for cyclists, walkers, and nature lovers, and plays an important role in Nairobi’s urban ecology.