The Friends of Karura Forest (FKF) community trust is opposing a directive by the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) that mandates all payments for gate entry, parking, and services be made exclusively through the government’s eCitizen platform. This move, effective from August 29, 2025, has sparked concerns over financial sustainability and alleged breaches of a long-standing joint-management agreement.

• FKF claims KFS has reneged on a 15-year arrangement, stating that entrance fees collected previously supported operations under a 20-year joint-management agreement.
• The Friends of Karura Forest (FKF) Community Forest Association (CFA) is the key organization involved, expressing concern about their ability to pay staff and contractors if all revenue goes to the government.
• Fees have reportedly increased with the addition of VAT and an eCitizen processing charge, significantly impacting Kenyan citizens and children who previously benefited from low entry rates.