Questions Raised Over Use Of Funds In Tree Harvesting, National Planting Program

The National Assembly’s Committee on Environment, Forestry, and Mining, chaired by MP Joseph Wainaina Iraya, has raised concerns about revenue generated from tree harvesting following the government’s decision to lift the moratorium on logging.

During a session today, lawmakers also questioned the funding and implementation of the National Tree Planting Program, which aims to plant 15 billion trees by 2032.

Kericho MP Beatrice Kemei pointed out that the State Department for Forestry was collecting billions of shillings from the harvesting of mature trees and the production of seedlings, yet the revenue details remained undisclosed.

“This committee needs clarity on how these funds are utilized. We know that significant amounts are being generated from our forests, including those in Kericho County. How is the State Department for Forestry managing these funds?” she asked.

She further noted that although the government had allocated a budget for the tree planting program and seedling production, there was no transparency regarding how the trees were being planted and whether they were being properly maintained to ensure survival.

“There is also a risk that the department may be using its own tree seedlings instead of those funded by the budget, leading to potential misuse of resources,” she added.

Turkana Central MP José Emathe questioned the inclusivity of the 15 billion tree project, noting that some regions, such as Turkana County, had not been considered despite the initiative being a nationwide effort.

The committee resolved to engage the State Department for Forestry to seek clarity on these concerns and ensure accountability in the management of forestry funds.

Later in the session, the committee adopted the report on the 2025 Budget Policy Statement and Medium-Term Expenditure for the three State Departments under the Ministry of Environment, Forestry, and Climate Change. The report, which was presented and defended last week, will be tabled before the National Assembly Liaison Committee on Monday next week.