President William Ruto has lifted the national ban on logging, allowing the harvesting of mature trees in forests across Kenya under strict regulation.
Speaking on Monday at the Molo Technical and Vocational College in Elburgon, the President said the move is aimed at reviving the timber industry, creating jobs, and reducing dependence on imported furniture.
“We shall reopen the timber factories here in Elburgon. I have told my Minister of Trade, Mr. Lee Kinyanjui, that importing furniture from China must end. We will use our own wood to make furniture,” President Ruto said.
Harvesting Limited to Mature Trees
The President emphasized that the lifting of the ban applies strictly to mature trees and warned against environmental abuse.
“This is not a license for the destruction of forests. It is about responsible utilization of resources,” he said.
He added that the government will sell mature timber in public forests to local sawmillers only, under controlled conditions monitored by forestry officers.
Ruto is expected to meet with sawmillers from the region on Tuesday to set guidelines for responsible logging.
Boost for Local Manufacturing and Affordable Housing
President Ruto said timber harvested from local forests will be used to make furniture for Kenya’s Affordable Housing Program, which is part of his flagship agenda.
“Furniture in Kenya will use timber from here, and our youth will make that furniture,” he said.
The initiative is expected to boost local carpentry businesses and reduce the importation of furniture from countries like China.
Leaders Present at the Event
The event was attended by:
- Governor Susan Kihika (Nakuru County)
- CS Alice Wahome (Lands and Housing)
- CS Lee Kinyanjui (Trade)
- PS Charles Hinga
- Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot, and several MPs and MCAs.
The leaders praised the decision, saying it would revitalize the economy of Elburgon, a town long known for its timber industry.
Mau Forest Restoration and Housing Projects
Earlier in the day, President Ruto visited Kuresoi North Constituency to oversee the Mau Forest Restoration Programme and launch livelihood projects for forest-adjacent communities.
He later commissioned the 220-unit St. Claire Affordable Housing Project and laid the foundation for the 2,680-unit Michinda Affordable Housing Project in Elburgon.
The President said these projects demonstrate the government’s commitment to balancing development with environmental sustainability.
