KFS Details 21.8-Hectare Dispute Between Karura Forest and Muthaiga Golf Club

The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has provided details on an ownership dispute involving Karura Forest and Muthaiga Golf Club over a 21.8-hectare piece of land.

In an update on Tuesday, September 15, KFS said Karura Forest was surveyed in the early 1920s, with the survey registered in 1923. 

According to KFS, the forest covers approximately 1,041.1 hectares and was declared a Forest Reserve through Proclamation No. 44 of 1932.

The agency added that the forest was later declared a Central Forest, alongside other state forests gazetted before independence, through Legal Notice No. 174 of May 20, 1964.

The dispute centres on Land Reference Number 13134/3, which Muthaiga Golf Club claims ownership of.

KFS said the parcel is alleged to encroach onto the gazetted Karura Forest by approximately 21.8 hectares, creating a difference in the ownership positions of the two entities.

The agency said the matter would now be addressed through discussions between the parties in an effort to resolve the dispute amicably.

"Owing to the difference in ownership positions between the two entities, a meeting will be held at KFS HQs aimed at seeking an amicable solution," KFS said.

Earlier Tuesday, Muthaiga Golf Club announced that KFS had taken over access to part of the club’s golf course, affecting the Front Nine from Hole No. 2 through to Hole No. 9.

In a statement, the club said KFS was claiming that the affected section of the course fell within Karura Forest.

"We wish to inform you that the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has invaded the course and taken over access to the Front Nine, from Hole No. 2 through to Hole No. 9. KFS is purporting that this section of the course falls within Karura Forest," the statement read.

Muthaiga Golf Club said its Board had taken up the matter and was working to resolve the dispute as quickly as possible.

"The Board is seized of the matter and is trying their level best to resolve the situation as urgently as possible," the statement added.

The club further advised members that the affected section would remain closed while the matter was being addressed. 

However, it clarified that other facilities, including the driving range and parking area, remained accessible.

"In the meantime, the Front Nine (Holes No. 2-9) is not available or accessible for members' use until further notice. Please note that the Range and parking is not affected," the statement further read.

The club apologised to members for the disruption and asked them to remain patient as efforts to resolve the situation continued.

"We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience caused and appreciate your patience, understanding and cooperation as the Club works to resolve this matter," the statement concluded.