Conservationists slam Atwoli over push to scrap Nairobi National Park

Conservationists have slammed the Central Organisation of Trade Unions (Cotu) Secretary General Francis Atwoli’s proposal to scrap Nairobi National Park to create space for expansion of the city.

They warned that the proposal to scrap one of Kenya’s most iconic and valued protected areas for urban development is misguided.

“Nairobi National Park is what makes Nairobi special, unique. Other cities have roads and buildings. Where else can millions of Kenyans see their natural heritage of wildlife, without making long journeys or staying in expensive hotels?” Posed Nature Kenya Director Paul Matiku.

“To have an island of wilderness within a city is an asset beyond measure. It has made Nairobi famous worldwide. It provides Nairobians with fresh air, relaxation, and learning.” Dr Matiku said.

Last Week, Atwoli suggested that the park’s wildlife be relocated to other national parks to allow for ‘decongestion’ of the city and help it achieve an international city status.

But conservationists warned of dire ecological and economic consequences.

Matiku said that the city’s green spaces, including Nairobi National Park, Karura Forest, Ngong Road Forest, City Park, the Arboretum, are essential for public health, mental well-being, environmental stability, and disaster mitigation.

Other conservation groups like Friends of Nairobi National Park (FoNNaP) have opposed the move, terming it as “undermining the park’s enormous value and contradicting the government’s own commitments to conservation.”

The park covers 117 square kilometers and is home to over 100 mammal species, including rhinos, giraffes, lions, leopards as well as over 500 bird species.

The conservationists said there was a need for leaders at all levels of government and to unequivocally reject any proposals that threaten the park's integrity.

“Instead, we urge a renewed, unwavering commitment to safeguarding and enhancing Nairobi’s natural heritage. This calls for inclusive, sustainable urban development that fully recognizes the long-term benefits these green spaces provide,” Matiku said.

“We advocate for a visionary approach that integrates nature directly into the city's fabric, championing initiatives like the proposed Nairobi Metropolitan Open Space System and others that prioritize environmental sustainability alongside economic growth.” he said.

The park was gazetted in 1946 and has since been used to promote Kenya as a tourism Capital.

Nairobi National Park is often called ‘The World's only Wildlife Capital’ because it is situated just a short drive from the city's central business district, and the fact that visitors can see unique wildlife species like rhinos, lions, and giraffes.

Over the years, Nairobi has kept topping the rankings globally as a premier travel destination, due to its unique status as the only capital city in the world with a national park within its boundaries.