Mau an important water tower

They say that the obvious may not always be so to everyone. This is so true of Mau Forest and its associated issues. The Mau has previously frustrated the political careers of top politicians in Kenya. And unless they pay heed, it will continue to do so. Why I am I so certain? The Mau is a natural ecosystem, complete with a vast tree cover, and an elevation that allows it to serve as a perfect water tower. It feeds great rivers like the Sondu, Njoro and Mara. The Sondu waters serve a wide basin before getting to Lake Victoria while Njoro feeds Lake Nakuru. The Mara river meanders through the Mara National Reserve then drifts into Serengeti National Park in Northern Tanzania. The Mara and Serengeti are renown touristic addresses in Eastern Africa and worldwide.

International attention

Therefore, a diminishing tree cover in the Mara attracts the quick attention of governments, UN agencies and global conservationists. Conservationists have huge influence and often galvanise government and international action. Unfortunately, pressure for human settlement and poor government vigilance have in the past adversely exposed the Mau. This was compounded by the issuance of title deeds for parts of the forest. Believing that they had good titles, beneficiaries moved in and cultivated their land parcels, in the process reducing tree cover. The consequences, which included reduced water levels in rivers and Lakes, adversely affected communities around the Mau and beyond, along with the tourism industry. The subsequent local and international outcry got the Kenya government to cancel title deeds that had been irregularly issued. This was followed by forced evictions, which in return triggered humanitarian and livelihood issues. This was good fodder for opportunistic politics.

The Mau issue simmers whenever presidential and general elections in Kenya are imminent. By its very nature, Mau isn’t amenable to quick political fixes. While its good climate, soils and tree cover tempt human settlements and illegal loggers, the consequences of its destruction are dire. But left to competent and honest conservators, the Mau can be managed. These professionals are able to strike a balance between the natural ecosystem and activities of the indigenous communities.

Futility of playing populist politics

But when those in pursuit of political power seek to address Mau, they pander to the populist paths of resettling people and compensation, which evoke the complex issues of alternative land and the legitimacy of the affected titles. Such populist pursuits, though, may easily win one the local vote. But on ascending to government, such political beneficiaries have found themselves having to align with rational national and international positions on the Mau. This is akin to eating humble pie while those who voted one to political office watch in surprise, waiting to withhold their votes come the next election. Serious local and national politicians must therefore beware this reality and avoid the Mau. Politically, Mau is like quicksand and no politician wins. Let Mau be left to technocrats and conservationists for the sustainable management and benefit of all.

Dated 21^st January, 2022