FIREDTensions are rife between Kenya's government, forest guards, traditional communities evicted from their lands and others who profit, legally or illegally, from it. Forest tribes, who have been fighting for greater access to their traditional lands in Kenya since colonial era evictions, are optimistic about the reforms. EVICTIONSKFS ousted the Ogiek from Chepkitale forest numerous times over many decades, community elder Andrew Balawei said. But others are wary of giving forest dwelling communities unchecked access given widespread corruption in the sector. As Ogiek elders gathered to chat in Laboot village in Chepkitale forest, they expressed hope that the KFS reforms will help to restore indigenous trees and end forced evictions of forest communities.

Source: The Star April 25, 2018 03:11 UTC