Matapato North Member of County Assembly (MCA) Abraham Osoi has defended Bissil town following claims that it is among areas involved in illegal charcoal burning within Kajiado County. The claims were made during a Bunge Mashinani session in Amboseli, where his Ngong counterpart MCA Mbiriri Mwaura, cited Bissil as one of the regions contributing to deforestation.
In response, Osoi described the allegations as unfounded and misleading, arguing that residents of Bissil are committed to environmental conservation and sustainable land use. He stated that it was irresponsible for leaders to make public accusations without verified evidence, as such statements can damage community reputation and erode public trust.
The exchange between the two county legislators comes amid growing concern over deforestation and illegal charcoal trade in Kajiado County. According to reports by environmental organisations and government agencies, the county has been significantly affected by unregulated tree felling driven by rising demand for charcoal and firewood. The Earth Journalism Network reported in 2022 that large tracts of land in Kajiado had been cleared for charcoal production, threatening local ecosystems.
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In October 2025, Governor Joseph Ole Lenku directed a countywide crackdown on illegal charcoal dealers, naming several regions, including Il Bissil, as areas under environmental surveillance. The governor’s directive aimed to protect indigenous trees and promote alternative sources of energy.
The debate underscores the ongoing tension between conservation efforts and economic realities in Kajiado, with leaders urging collaboration among government agencies, community members, and environmental groups to curb illegal activities while safeguarding community integrity.
By Benedict Aoya
