Kenya will resume timber harvesting in state forests after President William Ruto reversed a logging prohibition that began in 2018. The government plans to sell mature trees to domestic sawmillers who will supply wood for furniture production and the national affordable housing program. Ruto announced the policy change on Monday at a technical college in Nakuru County.
The administration set conditions that restrict cutting to fully grown trees and require replanting to maintain forest health. Ruto said the timber will replace furniture imports from China and create jobs for young workers in manufacturing. Officials will meet with sawmillers to establish management rules before sales begin.
The president visited forest restoration projects in Mau earlier the same day and opened a 220-unit housing development in Elburgon. Cabinet members for lands, housing, and trade joined Ruto at the events. The government aims to balance conservation efforts with economic development through regulated forest use.
The administration set conditions that restrict cutting to fully grown trees and require replanting to maintain forest health. Ruto said the timber will replace furniture imports from China and create jobs for young workers in manufacturing. Officials will meet with sawmillers to establish management rules before sales begin.
The president visited forest restoration projects in Mau earlier the same day and opened a 220-unit housing development in Elburgon. Cabinet members for lands, housing, and trade joined Ruto at the events. The government aims to balance conservation efforts with economic development through regulated forest use.
