Former Nairobi Governor Ann Kananu and COTU Secretary-General Francis Atwoli. Photo/Handout
By Newsflash Writer
Former Nairobi Governor Ann Kananu Mwenda has come out strongly against COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli, accusing him of advancing a “catastrophic and shortsighted” proposal to relocate the iconic Nairobi National Park.
In a strongly worded statement released on Saturday, 28 June, Kananu led a coalition of conservationists and park supporters in condemning Atwoli’s recent remarks suggesting the park be moved to accommodate what he termed “better land use.”
Kananu termed the proposal reckless and out of touch with both ecological realities and the spiritual and cultural identity of Nairobians.
“It is sad that a trade unionist, someone who should be championing ecological justice as a pillar of workplace well-being, is instead wishing disaster upon the people and staff of the Kenya Wildlife Service and the future of this city,” Kananu said.
The former governor described Nairobi National Park not as a mere piece of land but as “the lungs of our city, a global marvel, and a living testament to Kenya’s commitment to wildlife conservation.”
“To suggest its relocation is to propose tearing out a part of Nairobi’s soul,” she added.
Threat to nature, culture, and economy
Established in 1946, Nairobi National Park is the only wildlife park in the world situated within a capital city’s boundaries. The park plays a vital ecological role, serving as a refuge for critically endangered species including the black rhino, and housing lions, leopards, giraffes, cheetahs, zebras, and over 400 bird species. It also forms part of the broader Athi-Kapiti ecosystem, providing migratory corridors essential for the survival of wildebeests and zebras during dry seasons.
“Destroying this ecological balance would have devastating consequences. It is a dangerous fantasy to think that you can replace what nature has evolved over centuries with concrete and steel,” Kananu warned.
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Kananu also highlighted the park’s role in regulating Nairobi’s climate, protecting its water catchments, and serving as a natural flood-control mechanism. “Every time Nairobi floods, we’re reminded of what we still have. Without the park acting as a sponge, the situation would be ten times worse,” she said.
Beyond the environment, the park also serves millions of Nairobians as a vital space for recreation, learning, and mental well-being.
“It offers a unique escape from the city’s chaos — a place where people can connect with nature through game drives, picnics, birdwatching, or simply breathing fresh air,” said Kananu. “It is also a living classroom where students of all ages come to learn about conservation and our heritage.”
Park’s economic value
The economic value of the park is also significant. As a major tourist attraction, the park brings in both domestic and international visitors, supporting countless jobs in the tourism and hospitality sectors. Tour guides, hoteliers, local artisans, and transport providers all benefit from its existence.
“This park is a national economic asset. You land at JKIA, pass through the East Gate, enjoy a safari, and still make it in time for your city conference. That combination of tourism, leisure, and business is uniquely Kenyan,” she said.
Kananu also reminded Kenyans of the park’s status as a symbol of coexistence between urban development and wild nature — a rare example in today’s world.
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“Nairobi National Park stands as proof that a modern capital can thrive without destroying its natural legacy. That’s something to protect, not discard,” she said.
Calling on all stakeholders, Kananu urged Kenyans, conservationists, and international partners to resist any attempts to undermine the park’s integrity. “The park is not a commodity to be moved. It is a treasure to be safeguarded — for us and for the generations that will follow.”
She concluded with a rallying call to defend the park against all threats: “We must not be the generation that destroyed what was handed to us. Let us expand its buffer zones, strengthen protections, and invest in its long-term sustainability.”
The statement was backed by a coalition of environmentalists, park enthusiasts, and civic leaders who promised to stand united in protecting Nairobi National Park in its rightful place.
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