Riot police in Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, fired tear gas on Monday to disperse protesters demonstrating against plans to develop part of a protected national park.
The protests took place outside the main entrance of Nairobi National Park, where activists gathered to oppose construction projects they say threaten one of the country’s most important conservation areas.
According to Reuters reporters at the scene, officers arrested at least nine people during the operation. Among those detained was former Chief Justice David Maraga.
The Kenya Wildlife Service (Kenya Wildlife Service) has defended the proposed project, stating that it will expand an animal orphanage within the park. The agency maintains that the development is necessary to improve wildlife care and management.
However, protesters argue that the plan, which includes a parking facility for more than 1,000 vehicles, would encroach on the protected ecosystem. They carried placards reading “Nature is not vacant land” and other messages calling for the preservation of the park.
Nairobi National Park is unique as the only wildlife reserve located within a capital city. It lies about 10 kilometres from Nairobi’s central business district and is home to wildlife such as lions, rhinos, buffalo, and leopards, all set against the backdrop of the city skyline.
“We are gathered here because Nairobi National Park is once again under threat,” said activist Nyaguthii Chege during the protest.
Authorities have not yet commented further on the arrests or the use of tear gas.
