The National Assembly of Kenya is set to begin nationwide public hearings next week on proposed amendments to the country’s forest management law, marking a key step in shaping future conservation policy.
The Departmental Committee on Environment, Forestry and Mining will lead the exercise, inviting citizens and stakeholders to present their views on the Forest Conservation and Management Amendment Bill. The hearings will be conducted across twelve counties over five days, reflecting a broad push for public participation in legislative processes.
Committee Vice-Chairperson Charles Kamuren emphasized the importance of citizen input, noting that forestry issues directly affect livelihoods, climate resilience and economic sustainability.
“This engagement of the public is critical if we are to make any amendments to this law,” Kamuren said during a meeting at Bunge Tower. “Forestry matters are at the heart of every Kenyan, and we must hear what they think about the proposals.”
The hearings align with constitutional requirements for public participation, ensuring that legislative changes reflect the concerns and priorities of citizens, environmental groups and industry stakeholders.
Nationwide hearings to gather public views
The committee has split into two delegations of lawmakers to maximize outreach and efficiency during the hearings.
The first delegation, led by Committee Chairperson Vincent Musyoka, will hold sessions in Isiolo, Nyeri, Embu, Machakos, Makueni, Kilifi and Kwale counties from Monday to Friday.
Meanwhile, the second team, headed by Kamuren, will engage residents in Kisumu, Kakamega, Kericho, Uasin Gishu and Nakuru counties over the same period.
The proposed bill, sponsored by the Leader of the Majority Party, seeks to amend the existing Forest Conservation and Management Act Cap. 385 to align it with modern environmental challenges such as climate change, deforestation and sustainable resource use.
Kenya continues to face pressure on forest resources due to population growth, agricultural expansion and illegal logging, prompting renewed efforts to strengthen legal frameworks and governance systems.
The committee expects input from communities, conservation groups, businesses and county governments before compiling a final report for parliamentary debate and consideration.
