Public Outcry Erupts Over Luxury Hotel Construction in Kenya's Ngong Forest

Ngong Forest Hotel Construction Sparks Outrage in Kenya Construction of a luxury hotel inside Ngong Forest, a protected area near Nairobi, has sparked widespread outrage among Kenyans. Images circulating on social media show the hotel's construction at an advanced stage, raising concerns about environmental damage and the lack of public consultation. A tweet from the Green Belt Movement, a prominent environmental organization, highlights the controversy. "Dear Kenyans, a luxury hotel is being built inside Ngong Forest—next to the sanctuary," the tweet reads. "Who approved this? Where is the EIA? Was the public consulted?" The tweet also calls on the Kenya Forest Service to explain how a forest reserve was handed to private developers. The video, which has garnered significant views and comments, shows various stages of the hotel's construction, including foundation work and the erection of structures. The visual evidence supports the concerns raised in the tweet, indicating a significant development within a protected area. Environmental activists have expressed deep concern about the potential impact on the forest's biodiversity and ecosystem. One activist stated, "This is a blatant disregard for environmental regulations and the rights of the Kenyan people." The controversy underscores the ongoing tension between development and conservation in Kenya, highlighting the need for transparency and public participation in decision-making processes. The Kenya Forest Service has yet to issue an official statement addressing the public outcry. The situation remains tense, with environmental groups calling for a halt to the construction and a thorough investigation into the approval process.