President William Ruto
By David Njoroge
President William Ruto has ordered the reopening of logging operations in the Mau Forest Complex, aiming to revive the timber industry and create jobs in regions where sawmills shut down after the logging moratorium.
Speaking during a public engagement in Elburgon, Nakuru County on Monday, October 27, Ruto said those licensed to cut trees must plant seedlings to replace mature ones as part of his goal to grow 15 billion trees within 10 years.
“Anyone who is given a licence to cut down trees will also plant where they cut down those trees so that we have trees to cut down in the future,” he stated.
Ruto announced contracts for sawmillers to buy trees from government forests and called on local leaders to attract investors for timber processing.
“So, you, KK, look for whoever and bring them. I’ll give them licences to cut down trees and come to start factories here,” he added.
The directive comes amid debate over balancing economic recovery with environmental conservation, as the Mau Forest remains one of Kenya’s most critical water catchment areas. Environmental groups are expected to monitor logging closely to ensure reforestation commitments are met.
Ruto also said Kenya will soon stop importing furniture from countries including China, aiming to boost local manufacturing.
“A bed will be made in Kenya, and chairs will be made in Kenya. Sofasets, doors will be made in Kenya, and wood pieces will be Kenyan-made. Those who will do that job will be Kenyans,” he noted.
He instructed Trade Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui to implement measures to enforce the policy quickly, adding that anyone importing furniture will face higher taxes.
“Someone doesn’t want to sleep on a bed made in Elburgon? If he or she doesn’t want to buy a bed from Elburgon, that person can sleep on the floor,” Ruto said.
