The sandalwood issue in Kenya
East African Sandal wood is a tree species with spatial distribution in Kenya and Tanzania. It does not occur communally in large numbers, which could be attributed to its slow growth and host preference. The tree has several benefits like it has medicinal value and is also used in production of beauty products and perfume. The species has been of little importance, until recently when it was noticed that it was being overexploited to meet the international demand for its perfumery and medicinal products in the treatment of hepatitis. The nature of its exploitation raises concern on its survival in the wild as it involves uprooting of the whole tree, which threatens its survival.
Kenya has never legalised sandalwood harvesting but since 2005 there has been a lot of sandalwood harvesting in in Kenya especially in Kajiado, Narok, Samburu and Laikipia. Ever since this illegal business started conservation warriors (the rangers) have been in the front line to stop this business. The business has reduced to very minimal levels in Kajiado and Narok but it’s still going on in Laikipia and Samburu.
Loisaba Conservancy, Kenya has been involved in the fight against harvest of the East African Sandalwood. As from 2018 there have never been any sandalwood case in Loisaba conservancy. After this great success in cabbing this activity, Loisaba conservancy turned to helping its neighbours. The fight has never been easy since it involves very rich and well-connected dealers who bulldoze their way to the market. These dealers also have very good market intelligence, and this adds the problem in dealing with this business. Arresting this suspect is also very dangerous since they are armed with high caliber rifles. To add on this problem many of government security agencies have been compromised by the huge amount of money offered by this criminal.
From last year Loisaba has arrested several vehicles with sandalwood. On 15th September 2020 a lorry with 30 tons of sandalwood was arrested at Suguta after very long hide and seek game. This lorry was handed over to Kenya multi agency security team. On 19th November another lorry with 14tons of sandalwood from Samburu was arrested at Oldonyiro in Isiolo county. On 4 Jan 2021 a Nissan Xtrail was arrested at Oldonyiro with 7 bags of sandalwood from Samburu county. In all these operations Loisaba works together with Kenya police, Kenya Forest Service, Kenya Wildlife Service, and the multi agencies team. In all this the suspects are arrested and handed over for prosecution.
Author: David Saruni
