NAIROBI, Kenya, Nov 29 – The Nyeri Environment & Lands Court has issued conservatory orders regarding Petition E 001 of 2024 that aims to shield the Aberdare ecosystem from developments that could harm its environment and local communities.
The orders, issued by a three-judge bench earlier this month on November 7 after mutual consent, will halt any potentially harmful activities in the Aberdare ecosystem until a full hearing can be held.
A pretrial conference will be held in person on February 6, 2025, at 9:00 AM, while the petition hearing will proceed through affidavit and oral evidence from March 11 to 13, 2025.
The case is being presided over by Lady Justice L.N Gacheru, Justice B.M Eboso, and Justice J.O Olola.
The petitioners have been required to file their rejoinder within 21 days, while Parties wishing to respond to the petition have been directed to file witness statements and replying affidavits within 30 days.
This case, which was filed in March 2024 calls for thorough environmental assessment, consultation with local communities, and adherence to sustainable development principles to ensure that both ecological integrity and community welfare are prioritized in planning processes.
“This case reflects our commitment to conserving one of Kenya’s most important natural areas,” a notice stated.
The Aberdares Ranges are vital water towers in the country, with four out of seven of Kenya’s largest rivers, which include Tana, Athi, Ewaso Nyiro, and the River Malewa, sourcing water from these ranges.
These ranges are also water catchment areas for the Sasumua and the Ndakaini dams, which provide water to Nairobi and its neighbors.
Furthermore, the Aberdares is home to diverse species of wildlife, many of which are Kenya’s conservation interests, including elephants, giant forest hogs, rhinos, leopards, and the critically endangered mountain bongo, making the ranges a valuable tourism asset for the country.
