Tobiko extends term for Forestry probe team

The Government has extended by one more month the term of a task force mandated to investigate cases of illegal logging across the country .

Environment CS Keriko Tobiko, a number of critical activities are still pending: public hearings, field visits and meetings with key partners.

In a statement to newsrooms on Friday, Mr. Tobiko said the extension will enable the team to conclude their findings and submit the final report.

He however says they have already submitted their interim report to the Executive.

Deputy President William Ruto, who created the taskforce, issued a directive last month, banning all logging activities for 90 days.

The move created a ripple effect that has seen the price of charcoal hit the roof.

Reports indicate that a bag of 50kg that was previously selling at Ksh.1000 now goes for Ksh. 2,500.

There have also been cases of arrests of people found ferrying the commodity.

Traders are now reportedly looking to South Sudan to source charcoal as prices are apparently Ksh.900 cheaper there.