Lotodo Denies Knowledge of Mt Kenya Forest Trees Destruction
10/29/98
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Title: Lotodo Denies Knowledge of Mt Kenya Forest Trees Destruction
Source: The Nation
Status: Copyrighted, contact source for reprint permissions
Date: 10/29/98
Nairobi (The Nation, October 29, 1998) - Natural Resources
Minister Francis Lotodo denied knowledge of wanton destruction of trees in
sections of Mt Kenya Forest, where the rare Elgon Teak species grows.
Answering a question from North Imenti MP David Mwiraria, the minister
said the Elgon Teak species grows in the area. He said the government
plants trees on 475 acres annually in Mt Kenya forest as part of its re-
afforestation programme. Of this, 100 acres are set aside for replanting
of indigenous trees.
Mr Lotodo declined an offer by the questioner to visit Imenti forest, an
extension of the larger Mt Kenya forest, and see for himself "the
magnitude of destruction wrought on the precious natural resource by
charcoal burners".
"I make my own daily programmes. I do not have to be invited to visit a
place . . . I do not just say 'yes' to every claim made on the floor of
this House. I am simply not a 'yes' man," the minister replied.
Imenti Central MP Gitobu Imanyara (Ford Kenya) said that about 3,000 acres
of forest land was destroyed every year through corrupt practices by
forest officers. Muhoroni MP Odongo Omamo (NDP) asked the government to
make the growing and protection of Elgon Teak trees a priority.
By Nation Correspondent
Copyright 1998 The Nation. Distributed via Africa News Online.