The Environment and Land Court in Ol Kalou has issued conservatory orders suspending logging activities at Aberdare Forest until further directions are issued by the court. Justice Joseph Mugo Kamau is expected to lead a court visit to Geta Forest alongside all parties involved in the case on Friday, October 23, 2026. The orders apply to both licensed and unlicensed timber dealers operating within the forest. The case was filed by Kipipiri Member of Parliament Wanjiku Muhia and Elijah Gachuki, a registered voter from Kipipiri.
Leaders Raise Concerns Over Forest Destruction
During the court proceedings, Wanjiku Muhia described the alleged destruction of the Aberdare water tower through logging activities, particularly in the Geta Forest Block in Kipipiri. The MP raised concerns about the environmental consequences of continued tree felling in the area, which forms part of an important water catchment.
Kalonzo Musyoka, who was listed as an interested party, was represented by lawyer Ndegwa Njiru, while Muhia was represented by Kiragu Wathuta. The two legal representatives expressed optimism that the court would consider the interests of the public in determining the matter.
Police and Forest Officials Ordered to Enforce Ruling
The Nyandarua County Police Commander and the County Conservator of Forests have been tasked with ensuring compliance with the court orders. The ruling follows growing public concern in Nyandarua County over logging activities reported inside Aberdare Forest in the previous week. Residents and local leaders have raised alarm over the movement of numerous lorries transporting logs out of the forest, warning that the activities could accelerate environmental degradation and threaten a vital water catchment area.
Forest Authorities Defend Tree Harvesting
Despite the concerns raised by residents and leaders, forest authorities and sawmillers have defended the logging activities. They maintain that the harvesting involves mature and over-mature plantation trees and is part of established plantation management practices. The court’s intervention places the logging activities on hold as the dispute proceeds. The planned visit to Geta Forest is expected to allow the judge and the parties to assess the situation on the ground before further directions are issued.
