- Wetang’ula said properties should not be destroyed during the exercise as it would subject local people to suffering.
- He urged the Maasai community to jealously protect the Mau Forest noting that it was more beneficial to them.
Image: HANDOUT
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula has asked the government to conduct Mau forest evictions humanely.
Wetang'ula said human rights should be respected by security organs evicting people who have encroached on the water catchment area.
"The government's efforts to conserve May Forest by ensuring that encroachers move out is a move in the right direction but it should be done humanely," said Hon Wetang'ula.
He said properties should not be destroyed during the exercise as it would subject local people to suffering.
Speaking at Rutian village, Nkareta ward in Narok North Constituency, Wetang'ula supported a call by leaders on the government to draw a boundary between land owned by the community and the forest.
Wetang'ula addressed more than 3,000 Maasai youth during a ceremony where they graduated from Moranism to elders.
"It is good that residents through your leaders have resolved that those who invaded the forest are ready to move out and a boundary should be drawn to prevent encroachment on forest land," he added.
The Speaker told the Maasai community to jealously protect the Mau Forest noting that it was more beneficial to them.
"Mau forest is a key source of water for the Mara River that is famous worldwide because of the wildebeest migration that attracts tourists thereby earning Narok County revenue.
"Mara River is a jewel of tourism. It is the most sought-after resource for wildlife and nature enthusiasts from all over the world," he explained.
The Speaker noted that the river's survival is dependent on the Mau forest and the Maa community should direct all their arsenal towards conservation of the water catchment area.
He added that President Ruto discussed the Mau eviction and conservation plans with local leaders and assured them that their grievances would be addressed.
MPs from the region who accompanied the Speaker led by Narok Women Representative Rebecca Tonkei had raised alarm over the way Mau forest evictees were being handled.
Narok North MP Agnes Pareyio said they were not opposed to the government's plans to drive forest invaders out but said they should not be subjected to untold suffering.
"The government should draw a boundary for the forest land that will be adhered to by residents living in the area to avoid encroachment," she added.
On culture, Wetang'ula noted that the Maasai community has earned respect for their efforts to conserve and promote their culture.
"The Maasai community is the signature of Kenyan culture and traditions," said Wetang'ula as he asked the community not to relent in promoting their culture.
He caused laughter when he said during his visits abroad he is always asked whether unarmed Maasai can kill a lion.
The Speaker noted that King Charles III's visit to Kenya was a boost to the country's image especially in the tourism sector.
"King Charles's visit has opened confidence in the tourism sector. It has confirmed that Kenya is a safe destination to visit," he added.
Other MPs who accompanied the Speaker included Japheth Nyakundi (Kitutu Chache North), Patrick Simiyu (Cherengany), Innocent Mugabe (Likuyani), Zaheer Jhanda (Nyabari Chache) and Pauline Lenguris (Samburu).