Kenya Faces Rising Wildfires with 180 Incidents in Just Two Months

Kenya has recorded 180 wildfires since January, devastating over 1,357 hectares of vegetation. The fire season is expected to last until mid-March 2025 due to factors such as high temperatures and low humidity. The KFS has mobilized resources and suspended vegetation burning to manage the outbreaks. Public vigilance is necessary to monitor fire risks and report incidents.

Kenya is currently facing a significant increase in wildfires, with 180 incidents recorded since January, as reported by the Kenya Forest Service (KFS). The fires have ravaged over 1,357 hectares of vegetation in protected areas such as Maasai Mau, North Rift, Coast, Central Highlands (including Mt. Kenya and Aberdares), and Eastern Conservancies. The ongoing fire season, fueled by high temperatures, low humidity, and strong winds, is expected to persist until mid-March 2025.

KFS officials have issued warnings regarding the rapid drying of vegetation and the accumulation of combustible materials, which exacerbate the fire outbreaks. They reported that the situation has escalated in recent weeks, with fires affecting regions including Isiolo, Garissa, and various coastal areas. Additionally, due to the heightened risk, KFS has a high fire danger rating across its stations and has mobilized resources, collaborating with community forest associations, the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), and local government teams to combat these fires.

In an effort to mitigate the crisis, KFS has suspended all burning of vegetation near or within forested areas. Individuals wishing to burn vegetation close to forest reserves are now required to notify KFS or the police in writing at least 48 hours prior. KFS has also intensified its firefighting capability by deploying additional equipment, including pick-up vehicles and troop carriers, while recalling all staff on leave and implementing a smoke detection system in critical areas such as Mt. Kenya and Aberdares.

Two separate fires were recently reported in Mt. Kenya Forest, specifically at Gathiuri and Muringato forest stations, both known fire hotspots. KFS’s Nyeri County Conservator, Esther Mugo, indicated that the fire at Gathiuri, which began around 4 p.m. on Tuesday, is suspected to have been caused by arson, resulting in the destruction of 150 hectares of grassland. Furthermore, local beliefs suggest that burning grassland may encourage regrowth for improved grazing.

Mugo expressed concerns that such burning practices undermine forest ecosystems and biodiversity. Efforts made by KFS officers and community members to extinguish the blazes are being hindered by wind conditions and darkness. Additionally, another wildfire has originated in the Aberdare Forest, specifically in the Embaringo section.

Lucy Mwati, KWS Senior Assistant Director in the Mountain Conservation Area, reported that multiple fires have occurred in the Aberdares over the past week, highlighting the difficulties in managing outbreaks amid hot weather. Another active wildfire located in Lolldaiga Conservancy, Laikipia County, began in the southern area of the conservancy, prompting management to seek assistance from local community members for containment efforts.

Despite recent fire containment efforts in the Mau, Mt. Kenya, and Aberdale regions, KFS has cautioned the public that the fire risk remains elevated and could continue until mid-March. KFS has appealed for vigilance from the public, encouraging them to report any signs of fire to the nearest Forest Station.

In summary, Kenya is facing a severe wildfires crisis with 180 recorded incidents leading to significant vegetation loss in protected areas. The fire season, characterized by high temperatures and low humidity, is anticipated to extend until mid-March. KFS is actively working with local communities and agencies to combat the situation, having implemented stringent measures to manage fire risks effectively. Public vigilance remains crucial in preventing further outbreaks.

Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke