The Chief Conservator of Forests Mr Alex Lemarkoko has today officially opened Kibwezi Forest station offices and Rangers houses funded by Kenya Railways at a cost of Ksh 36 million. Accompanied by the Kenya Railways Manager Eng Shimrone Munga, the CCF inspected the infrastructure that includes fencing, office block and residential buildings.
During construction of the Standard Gauge Railway, Kibwezi forest station was affected and demolished, necessitating the need for new infrastructure.
The CCF noted that the developments have contributed to conservation efforts by enhancing living conditions of staff in the station. He thanked the Kenya Railways CEO for considering the environment and in particular environmental security. He noted the role of all Government agencies in contributing to 15 billion trees campaign saying that KFS is ready to engage all partners and provide technical support to enable all agencies to meet respective tree growing targets.
The Deputy County Commissioner confirmed there was teamwork among Government agencies to achieve tree growing goals in the County.
There is a serious challenge of Forest Rangers housing countrywide, however efforts are being made to address the shortages.
The CCF was accompanied by Monica Ndirangu RFC Eastern, Martin Mutie CFC Makueni, Michael Kokwee Regional Commandant, KEFRI Kibwezi staff and sub – County security committee.
Kibwezi forest station measures 5,868 hectares and it has numerous eco tourism attractions including Umani springs and rich biodiversity. The Chyulu Hills REDD+ project is being implemented within the station. The recently registered Kibwezi CFA has 220 members.
