Amid soaring temperatures across the country, the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has imposed a ban on the burning of vegetation in or near forested areas to curb the escalating risk of wildfires. The directive comes as fires continue to devastate key forest ecosystems, including the Mau, Mt Kenya, and Aberdares.
KFS Chief Conservator Alex Lemarkoko announced that anyone planning to burn vegetation near forest reserves must notify the nearest KFS office or police station in writing at least 48 hours in advance. This measure allows authorities to evaluate the request and determine its feasibility before granting approval.
“The service has enhanced preparedness by deploying additional firefighting equipment, 12 pickup vehicles, and six troop carriers. It has also recalled all staff on leave to bolster fire preparedness,” Lemarkoko said.
To enhance fire surveillance, KFS has installed an advanced smoke detection system to monitor forest fires in Mt Kenya, the Aberdares, and the Mau ecosystems. The system is expected to aid in early detection and rapid response to prevent large-scale destruction of forest cover.
“We urge the public to remain vigilant and report any signs of fire immediately to the nearest forest station,” Lemarkoko emphasized.
Since January, major fires have been reported in Isiolo, Garissa, and coastal ecosystems, further underscoring the urgency of KFS’s measures. According to the KFS Command Centre, the past week alone has seen an exponential rise in fire incidents, with 180 fires burning approximately 3,355 acres (1,357 hectares) of vegetation within gazetted forests across the Mau (Maasai Mau), North Rift, Coast, Central Highlands (Mt Kenya and Aberdares), and Eastern conservancies.
KFS attributes the heightened fire risk to prolonged dry weather conditions marked by high temperatures, low humidity, and strong winds. These conditions accelerate the drying of vegetation and the accumulation of combustible materials, significantly increasing the likelihood of fire outbreaks. The fire season is expected to persist until mid-March.
KFS is working closely with Community Forest Associations, the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), national and county government agencies, and conservation partners to prevent and suppress fires. Measures taken include increasing fire patrols, clearing firebreaks, and ensuring that all firefighting equipment is serviced and readily available.
Lemarkoko further directed that fire danger-rating boards and posters be displayed at strategic points to educate the public on the severity of the risk.
“In case of a fire outbreak, immediate reports should be sent to the KFS Command Centre, the nearest forest office, or a police station for swift action,” he stated.
KFS remains committed to mitigating fire risks through early detection and coordinated response efforts, urging all stakeholders to contribute to forest protection during this critical period.
