Today is a big day for many people in Kenya and especially to someone like me, an environmentalist. One of the thorny issues facing Kenya – “The Mau Eviction” may finally see the light of day. Thanks to the Right Honourable Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s (pictured below)
Hon. Raila Odinga
move yesterday in parliament, to stand for what is right. When answering questions raised over the issue, he categorically stated that he is willing by the truth as it is always correct. So says the bible…. “The Truth shall set you free”….. A few days ago, he stated that he was willing to put his political ambition on the line.. Meaning if the proposed eviction of the Mau Settlers will mean the loss of the Rift Valley Votes… so be it. He further mentioned the beneficiaries of the former regime’s Mau Settlement Scheme (MSS)… Another Kudus to you mheshimiwa
Dear reader, maybe you might be wondering what’s so important about this Mau.
Fast facts: –
1. The Mau encompasses of a forest complex that form one of the water towers in Kenya. The others include the Aberdare, Mt. Elgon and Mt. Kenya. it is estimated that 65% of Kenya’s population depend on waters arising from here. It waters are not only important to persons within the Rift Valley, but to those in the Western and Nyanza Provinces. The head waters most of the rivers draining into Lake Victoria from Kenya, arise from the Mau. The Mara River which provides water to the Mara Game Reserve (one of the 7 Wonders of the World), famous for its wildebeest migration occurring usually in August has its waters from the Mau.
2. The former regime issued out land to squatters (initially) but due to the politics of the day, the politically correct at the time also had chunks of land (some to several thousands of hectares). What transpired after that was the wanton destruction of the forest in search of arable land. The complex had indigenous people – the Ogiek, who have been living here for many years. These have practiced sustainable living till the coming of the newcomers who brought along a new lifestyle. Loss of water catchment areas has lead to erratic rains, loss of carbon sinks, ground water has dwindled affecting among others our natural species.
3. As stated earlier, the complex is of national importance as the entire country depends on it. Thus we cannot allow regional politics in matters where national interests will be compromised. Those making the loudest noises are those who benefited from the unwarranted demarcation of the forest. They can only be described as arrogant, uncouth, and selfish individuals who prefer to owning land rather than respecting the wishes and needs of a nation. More to this, they are pushing for compensation from the government.
4. Compensation for those evicted should be given at those who are honest squatters (holding genuine government deeds) and to the Ogiek community. End of story.. the rest of the political hooligans who think they can bull doze their way into our pockets can think again….. It happened once when they got the land, and it will not happen again….. We are brighter now..
Verdict
1. Mr. Prime Minister, please do not deviate from the truth as some of your colleagues are doing. Stand firm we are 100% behind you….. About you loosing votes in only a section of a region, don’t worry. You are gaining admiration from the entire nation… Which is better?
2. Hon. Michuki, Minister for Environment & Natural Resources, the Environmental Management & Coordination Act (1999) has now been amended by the President. The amendment gives you and the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) powers to act decisively. Both of you now have the teeth you have been longing for. Bite… and bite hard those who are destroying the environment.
Makanga Ndambiri 