KENYA'S LIFTING OF MORATORIUM: PAVING THE PATH FOR PROGRESS OR PERIL?

A moratorium is a temporary suspension or prohibition of a particular activity or action. It is often imposed by the government or relevant authorities to halt or delay certain actions or practices for a specified period. The moratorium was imposed in 2018 in attempt to curb illegal logging, environmental degradation especially on the water towers.  

                                                image credit: Britannica        

One of the strategic objectives of Kenya forest service, the governmental body in charge of state forests, is to enhance conservation, sustainable management and utilization of forests by improving livelihoods in rural areas. Plantation forests are primarily composed of exotic tree species that are managed to be harvested at a rotation age of about 30 years when the photosynthetic value of the tree starts to reduce. At this age, the trees are ready to be harvested for poles, logs, pulp, or other purposes. The sustainable plan then calls for the re-planting of new seedlings on the harvested plot of land. In a significant move that has stirred debate among stakeholders and environmental activists, Kenya has recently lifted the moratorium on plantation forest. The decision, driven by the desire to spur economic growth and development, has been met with both excitement and apprehension. As the dust settles, it is crucial to examine the advantages and disadvantages that come with the lifting of this moratorium, understanding the potential implications it may have on various sectors of the nation's economy and the environment. Let’s explore the advantages and disadvantages of Kenya's embrace of plantation forest harvesting, shedding light on the potential impact on the nation's economy, environment, and society.

Advantages of lifting the moratorium

1. Economic Growth

Allowing the harvesting of plantation forests can open avenues for economic growth, generating revenue from the sale of timber and forest products which can be used for public services and infrastructure development.

2. Job Creation

The forestry sector, including harvesting activities, can create employment opportunities for local communities, bolstering livelihoods and reducing unemployment rates.

3. Foreign Investment

With the newfound potential in the timber industry, Kenya may attract foreign investors, leading to increased foreign direct investment and knowledge exchange.

4. Sustainable Resource Management

Properly managed plantation forest harvesting ensures a continuous supply of timber while reducing pressure on natural forests, fostering sustainability.

5. Wood Products Availability

Harvested timber serves as a renewable source of wood products, catering to the demands of construction, furniture, and other industries.

6. Rural Development

Plantation Forest harvesting in rural areas can stimulate economic growth, improve infrastructure, and enhance living standards for local communities.

7. Reduced Deforestation

By providing an alternative source of timber, plantation forest harvesting can help reduce illegal logging and deforestation in natural forests.

8. Energy Generation

Plantation Forest harvesting can be used as a sustainable source of renewable energy especially to the local communities reducing conflicts.

Environmental concern of Lifting the Moratorium.

1. Environmental Concerns

 Plantation  harvesting may lead to environmental challenges such as soil compaction by skidding machines, habitat disruption, and soil erosion, threatening ecosystems.

2. Loss of Biodiversity

The harvesting of vast plantation areas may result in reduced biodiversity, affecting the balance of the ecosystem and endangering certain species of birds and animals that may be living in the plantation.

3.Soil Degradation

Plantation harvesting can lead to soil degradation, through soil erosion as the harvested plot is left pare and exposed to agents of soil erosion such as water which will impact fertility and causing long-term damage to the land.

4. Water Resource Impact

Poor harvesting practices might lead to water pollution due to soil erosion into water bodies and decrease water availability due to reduced infiltration , affecting both humans and wildlife(aquatic).

5. Social Impact

Plantation Forest harvesting can raise social issues, including land rights disputes and potential displacement of local communities.

Conclusion

The lifting of the moratorium in Kenya has ignited a fierce debate, with proponents praising the potential economic growth and job opportunities, while critics express concerns about environmental degradation and social consequences. Striking a balance between progress and preservation will be the key to ensuring a sustainable future for the nation. As Kenya embraces this new phase of economic activity, responsible regulation, environmental protection, and community engagement will play pivotal roles in determining the overall success and impact of this transformative decision.

Reference

1. Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry.
2. Kenya forest service