The fate of the Aberdare ecosystem, featuring majestic peaks, steep forested ravines, and open moorlands, will be determined by a special bench appointed by Chief Justice Martha Koome. This follows a ruling by Nyeri Environment and Lands Court Judge James Olola, extending the Conservatory Order on the Ihithe-Ndunyu Njeru section of the Mau Mau road project. The East African Wildlife Society (EAWLS) challenged this project proposed by the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA), citing environmental concerns.
Critics argue that the road project, cutting through the Aberdare National Park and Forest Reserve, poses an ecological threat, potentially affecting endangered species and disrupting a critical water catchment area. The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) initially opposed the project in 2009, citing potential destruction of endangered tree species, but reversed its stance this year.
Dr. Paul Matiku, Executive Director of Nature Kenya, stated, “Kenya needs roads but not across the forest and the park.” Rhino Ark CEO Christian Lambrechts added, “The road will undermine the recent commitments made by President William Ruto to increase tree cover to more than 30% by 2032.”
The project’s Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) by Norken International Ltd reveals that approximately 257 acres of vegetation, including 185 acres of bamboo and 35 acres of moorland, will be cleared. The Aberdare ecosystem is a critical water source for rivers such as the Athi and Ewaso Nyiro, and disruptions could impact millions downstream.
Critics also argue that the proposed road, with steep gradients and harsh weather conditions, may not be as economically viable as alternative routes. A study by the Universities of Nairobi, Oxford, and Amsterdam highlighted that the project may not bring significant socio-economic benefits and could be more costly due to the challenging terrain.
Experts suggest investing in agro-processing industries in the counties instead, which could reduce post-harvest losses and create employment. The project is also expected to impact tourism, as the Aberdare National Park is home to over 250 bird species and the critically endangered mountain bongo antelope.
Dr. Dominic Walubengo from the National Environment Civil Society Alliance of Kenya emphasized that the funds could be better spent on sustainable development projects that protect the Aberdare ecosystem.
The ripples of wanton destruction of indegenous bamboo, olea europaea (mutamaiyu), dombeya goetzinae (mukeu), Juniperous procera(cedar) and many other indigenous species were recently felt in Kijabe and Mai Mahiu. These species have the ability to stitch the soil and hold it together hence the reduction of landslides.
The true meaning of a” Water catchment” is realized when there is minimum interference so those downstream are assured of perennial flow of water.
Interference with the Aberdare Ecosystem will result into worse scenarios than what we recently witnessed in Kijabe.
Stop the Ndunyu Njeru-Ihithe road construction.