Former Law Society of Kenya president Nelson Havi protested the cutting of trees along Nairobi’s State House Road, questioning the need for road expansion. On October 11, 2026, Havi posted a video on X showing felled trees, accusing authorities of prioritizing infrastructure over environmental concerns. The action occurred just a day after Mazingira Day, a national environmental awareness event. Havi, a 2027 Westlands parliamentary aspirant, emphasized the ecological impact of the tree removal.
The incident sparked public debate over urban development and environmental protection. Local activists expressed concern over the loss of green spaces, while officials defended the project as necessary for improving traffic flow. No official statement has been issued confirming the extent of the tree removal or the approval process. Havi’s protest highlights growing tensions between infrastructure projects and conservation efforts in Nairobi.
Mazingira Day, celebrated annually on October 11, aims to promote environmental awareness and sustainability. The timing of the tree cutting raised questions about the city’s commitment to ecological principles. While some critics accused authorities of hypocrisy, others argued that infrastructure development is essential for economic growth. The controversy underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing urban expansion with environmental responsibility in Kenya’s capital.
