Why Governor Ngilu is unbowed amid pressure to lift charcoal ban in Kitui

Some women selling charcoal in the backstreets of Narok town. The government has raised concern over rampant illegal charcoal trade in the area. [Robert Kiplagat, Standard]

A week ago, a Sh11 million lorry laden to capacity with charcoal bags went up in flames at Kanyonyoo on the Mwingi–Garissa highway.

It was said to be a case of arson, following the ban of decades-long charcoal trade in Kitui County imposed by Governor Charity Ngilu.