Public Outcry Over Cutting of Old Trees at TANATHI Offices in Kitui
Questions are being raised over the cutting down of old trees around the Tana Athi WATER WORKS Development Agency offices in Kitui, with members of the public calling for greater accountability and protection of the environment.
Residents and environmental conservation advocates say the mature trees should have been preserved rather than being cut down, arguing that public institutions have a responsibility to lead by example when it comes to environmental conservation.
The removal of the trees has also changed the appearance of the compound, with some residents describing the area as now looking like “Gedi ruins” following the loss of its mature vegetation.
The issue has sparked renewed debate on whether public institutions are doing enough to protect existing trees, even as the National Government continues to promote tree planting, forest conservation and environmental protection.
Members of the public argue that planting new trees cannot fully replace the environmental value of mature trees that have taken decades to grow. Old trees provide shade, improve air quality, support biodiversity, protect soil and contribute to the beauty and character of public spaces.
They are now calling on TANATHI to explain why the trees were cut down and whether alternatives were considered before the exercise was undertaken.
The public is also urging relevant environmental authorities to ensure that tree cutting in public institutions is properly regulated and that mature trees are only removed where there is a clear and justified need.
As the country pushes for more trees to be planted, residents say the message should also be clear: protect the trees we already have. 🌴
Public interest question: If public institutions are expected to champion environmental conservation, who will protect mature trees when they are threatened with unnecessary removal?
