Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has once again raised concerns about land use and development in government projects, this time questioning the ownership of a high-end camping facility under construction in Ngong Road Forest.
Speaking during a church service in Murang’a County, Gachagua alleged that the eco-camp project located in the Sanctuary block of the forest may be linked to President William Ruto. He further claimed the land was acquired to take advantage of the ongoing construction of the Talanta Hela stadium nearby.
“The president wants to use five acres in Ngong Forest to construct a hotel that will serve the stadium once it is complete,” Gachagua alleged.
He also suggested that following his public statements, the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) was instructed to pause construction activities at the site. Gachagua indicated he receives information from sources within government who are reportedly concerned about the developments.
“There are reports of land being taken in Naivasha, Narok, and even Meru where infrastructure developments appear to benefit certain private ventures,” he added.
His remarks come amid rising public interest in the Ngong Forest project, with environmental groups such as the Green Belt Movement demanding transparency from relevant authorities. They have expressed concerns about potential threats to the integrity of protected forest land.
In response to these concerns, KFS clarified that the development in question is a bush eco-camp, which went through a full approval process. According to KFS, environmental assessments found no serious negative impacts from the project.
“The site is a glade — a natural forest opening with grass and bushes but no trees — so no deforestation has occurred,” said the agency in an official statement.
KFS further stated that the project had been temporarily suspended to allow for more engagement with stakeholders and the public.
