Kenya Faces Escalating Wildfire Crisis with 180 Incidents in Two Months

Kenya has recorded 180 wildfires since January, destroying over 1,357 hectares of vegetation. High temperatures, low humidity, and strong winds are driving the fire season, which is expected to persist until mid-March. The Kenya Forest Service is actively combatting the crisis through resource mobilization and preventive measures, urging the public to report fires.

Kenya is currently grappling with a significant uptick in wildfires, having recorded 180 incidents since January, as reported by the Kenya Forest Service (KFS). These fires have resulted in the destruction of over 1,357 hectares of vegetation across various protected regions, including the Maasai Mau, North Rift, Coast, Central Highlands, and Eastern Conservancies. KFS officials have indicated that the fire season, influenced by elevated temperatures, low humidity, and strong winds, is anticipated to persist until mid-March.

As the crisis escalates, particularly in regions such as Isiolo and Garissa, KFS has raised the fire danger rating across its stations and mobilized additional resources. The agency is collaborating with community forest associations, the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), and local government teams to address the ongoing fires. In a precautionary measure, KFS has prohibited all burning activities within or near forested areas, requiring individuals to provide written notification to KFS or local police 48 hours before any intended burning.

To bolster firefighting efforts, KFS has increased its deployment of equipment, including pick-up vehicles and troop carriers. Additionally, the agency has recalled staff from leave and introduced a smoke detection system to enhance fire monitoring in the Mount Kenya, Aberdares, and Mau regions. Recent reports highlight multiple outbreaks, with significant incidents occurring at fire-prone stations in Mt Kenya.

On Wednesday, two fires were reported at Gathiuri and Muringato stations. KFS’s Nyeri County Conservator, Esther Mugo, indicated that the Gathiuri fire, suspected to be arson, devastated 150 hectares overnight. Community members have expressed beliefs that grassland burning might enhance regrowth for grazing purposes, which Mugo cautioned disrupts critical forest ecosystems and biodiversity.

In summary, Kenya is facing a serious wildfire crisis with 180 incidents reported since January, causing extensive vegetation loss in protected areas. The KFS is actively working to combat the situation by deploying resources and restricting burning activities. Community involvement is deemed crucial, and the public is urged to remain vigilant while reporting any sign of fire. The fire risk is expected to continue until mid-March, illustrating the importance of ongoing proactive measures.

Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke