CS Duale addresses critical environmental issues

By Robert Mutasi

Aden Duale, the Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry, appeared before the National Assembly's Public Petitions Committee  to address seven petitions that highlight significant environmental and land-related concerns under his Ministry.

The session, chaired by Kitui East MP Hon. Nimrod Mbai, were critical issues that ranged from the health risks of asbestos to land rights and forest conservation.

Among the key petitions discussed was Petition No. 52 of 2023, which seeks to ban asbestos roofing materials on grounds that they pose health risks.

In response, Duale acknowledged the dangers associated with asbestos and affirmed the Ministry's commitment to phasing out the material.

He reiterated that the Ministry is working closely with stakeholders in transitioning to safer and more sustainable alternatives, putting the health and safety of Kenyans first.

The Cabinet Secretary also received petitions on the resettlement of squatters in Koiben Village, Nandi County, and Ontulili in the Mt. Kenya Forest.

These areas have been synonymous with land rights disputes for years, with political interference previously denying deserving families the opportunity to receive land titles.

Duale said he will engage the Cabinet to ensure that title deeds are issued to affected families, but linked resettlement efforts to forest conservation through the establishment of Community Forest Associations.

He added that this would ensure the sustainable use of land with due respect for environmental protection.

Other discussions revolved around the conservation of forests in Kenya. Duale outlined efforts to secure the gazettement of Kaya forests for environmental protection and to declare Mukutani Forest as public land.

However, he indicated that the Boni-Lungi Forest, which is one of the areas under security operations, cannot be de-gazetted at the moment because of its strategic importance.

Other senior Ministry officials who attended the session include the Forestry Principal Secretary Mr. Gitonga Mugambi, Ag. Forest Conservation Secretary Mr. George Tarus, Chief Conservator of Forests Mr. Alex Lemarkoko, and the Director General of NEMA, Mr. Mamo Mamo among others.

Duale reiterated the Ministry’s focus on fostering sustainable policies that prioritize both environmental stewardship and the resolution of pressing public concerns.

With these efforts, the Ministry aims to balance Kenya's environmental goals with the needs and rights of local communities, paving the way for a greener, more equitable future.