Munya warns against clearing Meru Forest for proposed State Lodge
By Kenneth Mwenda, June 7, 2026Former Cabinet Secretary Peter Munya has joined growing opposition to plans to construct a State Lodge and related developments in Meru County, warning that such projects should not be allowed to proceed if they threaten forests and water catchment areas.
The debate has intensified after reports that sections of the forest in Kambakia along the Meru–Nanyuki Road could be considered for a state lodge, a golf course, and other facilities linked to the government’s broader plan to expand executive infrastructure across the country.
Munya made his remarks during a church service at MCK All Saints Church in Kinoru, North Imenti, Meru County, on Sunday, June 7, 2026, where he also addressed governance, leadership, and environmental concerns affecting the region.
He said leaders must respect the environment and listen to residents before pushing large-scale projects.
“Wachana na msitu. Wachana na msitu,” he said. “Hata kuna wakati mwingine ilikatwa tukapiga kelele, ikarudishwa. It has not even revived itself.”
He added that the forest remains fragile and cannot sustain further destruction.
“It has not even revived itself. And don’t tell us you’ll do it by force,” he said.
Environmental concerns
The proposed State Lodge in Meru has triggered widespread debate among leaders, environmental groups, and residents. Critics argue that the project risks damaging Imenti Forest, one of the region’s key water towers.
Munya insisted that forests are not private property and must be protected for public benefit.
“Ati mnatuambia si shamba yetu. Ni shamba yetu. Msitu ni shamba yetu ndio inatoa maji tunakunywa. Ndio inatengeneza economy yetu hapa. Kwa hivyo ni shamba yetu.”
He warned against forcing development projects that ignore environmental realities.
“Don’t force grand projects that are going to destroy the environment in Meru merely because you are in power.”
Munya also stated that communities have a right to challenge such projects in court if they threaten the environment.
“But we will stop you because we have the right to go to court to stop any project we think will mess us up.”
His remarks align with concerns raised by environmental groups, including the Green Belt Movement, which has opposed any excision of forest land for infrastructure development.
The organisation has warned that forests are critical water catchment areas and should not be converted into luxury or executive facilities.
The State Lodge proposal has also drawn strong political reactions.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua questioned the need for a new State Lodge in Meru, arguing that existing facilities are sufficient.
He added that the president could easily operate from Sagana State Lodge due to its proximity. He also raised concerns about claimed plans to excise parts of Imenti Forest for development.
Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i also criticised the project, saying government priorities should focus on security and essential infrastructure rather than executive facilities.
Imenti Forest and water supply concerns
Environmental groups argue that Imenti Forest is a vital water catchment area supporting rivers and springs in Meru and surrounding counties. They warn that any encroachment could worsen water shortages already affecting residents.
Munya echoed these concerns, noting that water levels have declined and forest cover has not recovered from past destruction.
“This town doesn’t have enough water as we speak. River Kathita doesn’t have enough water as we speak. The prices of water have gone up. The water is not available.”
Instead of using forest land, Munya urged the government to consider alternative sites with enough public land for development projects.
He said Meru has sufficient land that does not require environmental destruction.
“Meru has enough land. Ukiteremka kule pande ya Mbirikene in North Imenti… there are six hundred acres public land which you can utilise. Ukienda pande ya Buuri, kuna public land.”