KNH Explains Why It Cut Down Trees That Housed Marabou Storks

KNH Explains Why It Removed Trees That Hosted Marabou Storks

Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) has responded to concerns from the public over the recent removal of trees within its compound that nested the marabou storks saying the decision was made to protect lives and property.

In a press statement dated August 2, the hospital said the exercise also considered the safety of the marabou storks that had made the trees their habitat.

According to KNH, the affected African acacia trees were more than 30 years old and had become old and decayed.

The hospital said the weakened trees had become a safety risk because branches had previously fallen, damaging steam pipes and parked vehicles.

In some cases, falling branches also caused the death of birds nesting in the trees.

Following a technical assessment and with the rainy season approaching, KNH decided to remove the hazardous trees as a preventive safety measure.

“The affected African acacia trees, which were over 30 years old, had become aged and decayed, resulting in the frequent falling of branches and posing a significant safety risk,” the hospital said.

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KNH Says Tree Removal Was Meant to Protect Patients and Marabou Storks

KNH said the tree removal was meant to protect patients, staff, visitors, hospital property, and the marabou storks from the dangers posed by the deteriorating trees.

The hospital added that it is working with relevant government agencies to ensure the welfare of the affected birds.

“We are working closely with the relevant government agencies to ensure the welfare of the affected marabou storks and to facilitate appropriate measures, including their safe relocation where necessary,” KNH stated.

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Tree Replacement Plan

KNH acknowledged that the exercise disrupted the birds’ habitat but said it is committed to restoring the environment.

The hospital announced that it will launch a tree replacement programme by planting suitable tree species in appropriate locations across its grounds.

“KNH regrets the disruption to the birds’ habitat and will undertake a tree replacement programme by planting suitable tree species in appropriate locations across the hospital grounds as part of its commitment to environmental conservation and public safety,” the statement read.

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