Kenya Faces Alarming Rise in Wildfires with 180 Blazes in Two Months

Kenya is experiencing a surge in wildfires, with 180 incidents recorded since January, leading to the destruction of over 1,357 hectares of vegetation. The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) warns that the fire season will continue until mid-March due to unfavorable weather conditions. Increased fires have prompted the KFS to enhance firefighting measures and impose restrictions on vegetation burning. Community cooperation is essential to control the crises and preserve forest ecosystems.

Kenya is currently facing a significant rise in wildfires, with 180 recorded incidents since January, as reported by the Kenya Forest Service (KFS). This alarming trend has already resulted in the destruction of over 1,357 hectares of vegetation in protected regions such as Maasai Mau, North Rift, Coast, Central Highlands, and Eastern Conservancies. KFS officials attribute the fire season to persist until mid-March due to prevailing high temperatures, low humidity, and strong winds.

The recent escalation in wildfire incidents has been particularly acute, affecting areas in Isiolo, Garissa, and the coastal regions. In response to this crisis, the KFS has issued a high fire danger rating across all its stations and has increased its resources in collaboration with community forest associations, the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), and local government teams to combat the fires. To further mitigate the situation, KFS has also suspended all vegetation burning activities near forested areas.

To bolster firefighting capabilities, KFS has deployed additional equipment, including pick-up vehicles and troop carriers. The agency has called back all staff from leave and introduced a smoke detection system for improved monitoring in critical areas such as Mt Kenya, Aberdares, and Mau. For instance, two separate fires were reported in Mt Kenya Forest, with one at Gathiuri suspected to result from arson, leading to the loss of 150 hectares of grassland.

Furthermore, Esther Mugo, KFS Nyeri County Conservator, indicated that some community members mistakenly believe burning grassland promotes regrowth for improved grazing conditions. Such practices, however, disrupt forest ecosystems and biodiversity. Firefighting efforts faced challenges due to strong winds and darkness, particularly in the Aberdare Forest, where multiple fires have occurred recently, showcasing a troubling trend of outbreaks.

In addition, a wildfire in the Lolldaiga Conservancy in Laikipia County prompted local management to enlist community support for extinguishment. KFS assures the public that it remains vigilant and prepared to handle further fires, despite recent containment efforts. The organization continues to warn of high fire risks persisting until mid-March and urges vigilance among the public to report any signs of fire to the nearest Forest Station.

In conclusion, Kenya is grappling with an unprecedented surge in wildfires attributed to climatic conditions and human activities. The KFS is actively working to combat this crisis by enhancing firefighting resources and implementing preventative measures. While recent efforts have curbed some outbreaks, the risk remains elevated, highlighting the necessity for public awareness and cooperation in protecting the nation’s forests.

Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke