The I&M Foundation has issued a formal statement to clarify its role in the ongoing Imarisha Ngong’ Road Forest project, distancing itself from recent speculation surrounding an alleged hospitality development within the forest sanctuary.
In response to growing public discourse and online concern over possible commercial activity in Nairobi’s Ngong’ Road Forest, the Foundation emphasized that its project is entirely non-commercial and community-driven. Launched in May 2024, the Imarisha Ngong’ Road Forest initiative is focused on environmental restoration, biodiversity conservation, and the creation of inclusive green spaces that bolster public wellbeing and climate resilience.
“This project is being implemented in consultation with local communities and in full alignment with environmental regulations,” the statement read.
The Foundation noted that it conducted a three-month public participation process prior to the project’s rollout, engaging the Ngong Road Community Forest Association and local administrators in Lang’ata, Dagoretti South, and Kibera sub-counties.
Defined Scope of the Project
According to the press statement, the scope of the Imarisha initiative includes:
Green Park Infrastructure: Construction of ablution blocks, housing for forest rangers, and the fencing of 14.2 kilometers within the sanctuary forest block.
Forest Restoration: Establishment of a nursery, regeneration of degraded areas, and creation of additional trails.
Water Infrastructure: Borehole drilling, water reticulation, and installation of water points to sustain the nursery and park ecosystem.
Funded solely by I&M Foundation—supported by an annual endowment from I&M Bank Limited—the project is designed to benefit both the environment and the community, the statement said.
Addressing the controversy, I&M Foundation and I&M Bank categorically denied any knowledge of or connection to an alleged hospitality project that has sparked concern on social and mainstream media.
“Both I&M Foundation and I&M Bank would like to categorically state that they were not aware of or have any association with the alleged hospitality development at the centre of the discussions,” the statement read.
The Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to environmental responsibility and transparency, pledging to continue engaging stakeholders to ensure the project delivers long-term conservation benefits.
The clarification comes as urban green spaces in Nairobi face increasing pressure from infrastructure expansion and real estate interests. Conservation groups have welcomed the Foundation’s transparency but continue to call for vigilance to safeguard public forest land.