Kenyan emergency teams are battling multiple wildfires at Nairobi National Park as the dry season intensifies, leading to an increase in fire outbreaks across the country. According to the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), two major fires erupted at the park on Thursday and Friday evening, prompting an urgent response from various agencies.
The first fire ignited near Wilson Airport along the Southern Bypass, while another blaze was reported at the Athi Basin Dam area. Firefighting teams comprising KWS personnel, the Kenya Defense Forces, and volunteers are actively working to contain the latest blaze, which remains a threat to the park’s ecosystem. KWS has launched investigations into the cause of the fires, with preliminary suspicions pointing to human activity. Possible causes include discarded cigarettes, arson, and honey harvesting.
The Nairobi National Park fires are part of a broader crisis, with wildfires reported in other conservation areas across Kenya. KWS has confirmed ongoing firefighting efforts in the Aberdare Ecosystem, Ruma National Park in Homa Bay, and South Island National Park in Loiyangalani, Marsabit County. The fire in Loiyangalani lasted four days and consumed approximately 60 square kilometers before it was contained.
Additionally, authorities have successfully controlled wildfires at Mt. Elgon National Park, specifically in Kimothon Forest, and at Tsavo West National Park. The escalating number of wildfires highlights the severity of the current dry season, which has increased the risk of fire outbreaks in Kenya’s national parks and forests.
KWS has urged the public to exercise caution when visiting conservation areas, emphasizing the importance of responsible behavior to prevent accidental fires. The agency is also calling for increased community awareness and preparedness measures to mitigate future fire risks.
As climate change continues to exacerbate extreme weather conditions, experts warn that prolonged dry spells could lead to more frequent and intense wildfires in Kenya. Conservationists stress the need for enhanced fire management strategies, including early detection systems and rapid response teams, to protect Kenya’s rich biodiversity.
The ongoing firefighting efforts underscore the critical role of multi-agency cooperation in preserving the country’s natural heritage. Authorities remain vigilant as they work to contain the fires and safeguard wildlife and vegetation from further destruction
