In a significant turn of events, Environment CS Soipan Tuya has intensified investigations into corruption within the Kenya Forest Service (KFS), mere hours after President William Ruto’s directive to dismiss 23 employees suspected of involvement in graft and illegal logging activities.
Addressing the media in Nairobi, CS Tuya confirmed the immediate dismissal of the 23 KFS employees amid serious corruption allegations and suspected connections to illegal loggers. She further revealed that a comprehensive probe would encompass the entire agency, including its board of management. Tuya made it clear that no one, including high-ranking officials, would be exempt from scrutiny, stating, “We are sending a stern message to all KFS officers and directors: there will be no sacred cows in this investigation.”
Furthermore, Tuya disclosed ongoing investigations into additional officers, promising swift action against anyone found linked to illegal logging. “Apart from the initial 23 individuals, we are actively investigating more cases. Our efforts will be transparent, and the public will be informed of the progress we make,” she asserted.
In a collaborative effort, Tuya and her ministry officials are striving to meet the ambitious target of planting 15 billion trees in the country. She shared plans to engage recently graduated KFS officers, who completed their training on October 11, in the tree-planting initiative. Despite the challenges posed by the current rainy season, Tuya expressed optimism, aiming to plant 500 million trees nationwide by Christmas. “We hope for consistent rainfall to aid us in achieving this national goal,” she remarked.
These developments transpired following President Ruto’s announcement, where he not only ordered the immediate dismissal of the 23 employees but also tasked CS Tuya and her ministry with implementing reforms within the beleaguered agency. The President’s intervention underscores the gravity of the corruption issue within KFS, emphasizing the government’s commitment to eradicating illegal logging and restoring integrity within the nation’s vital forestry sector.
As investigations unfold, the nation watches closely, anticipating further revelations that might reshape the future of Kenya’s forestry management and administration.
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