Kenya Faces Record Wildfires: 180 Incidents in Just Two Months

Kenya faces a significant surge in wildfires, with 180 incidents documented since January. The fires have devastated over 1,357 hectares of protected vegetation, with conditions expected to worsen until mid-March. KFS is taking stringent measures, including deploying additional resources and suspending vegetation burning, to combat the crises.

Kenya is currently grappling with an alarming increase in wildfires, having recorded 180 incidents since January, as reported by the Kenya Forest Service (KFS). The fires have ravaged over 1,357 hectares of vegetation across various protected areas, including the Maasai Mau, North Rift, Coast, and Central Highlands (Mt. Kenya and Aberdares). The prevailing conditions—high temperatures, low humidity, and strong winds—are anticipated to prolong the fire season until mid-March.

KFS officials have indicated that the hot and dry weather has exacerbated the situation, leading to rapid vegetation desiccation and the accumulation of combustible materials. “The rapid drying up of vegetation and the accumulation of combustible materials is further exacerbating the situation,” the agency stated in their communication issued on February 27, 2025. The crisis intensified over the past week, with particular incidences reported in Isiolo, Garissa, and various coastal regions.

To combat the escalating fires, KFS has issued a high fire danger rating at its stations and mobilized additional resources. They are collaborating with community forest associations, the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), and local government teams to control the blazes. As a precautionary measure, KFS has halted all vegetation burning activities near or within forested areas and requires individuals intending to conduct such activities to give a 48-hour written notice to local authorities.

In order to bolster firefighting capabilities, KFS has deployed further equipment, including pickup vehicles and troop carriers. Staff members who were on leave have been called back, and a smoke detection system has been integrated to enhance fire monitoring in critical areas such as Mt. Kenya, Aberdares, and the Mau region. Recently, two fires broke out in Mt. Kenya Forest, specifically at the Gathiuri and Muringato stations, which are known hotspots for fires during the dry season.

KFS Nyeri County Conservator, Esther Mugo, has indicated that the fire at Gathiuri, which ignited around 4 PM on Tuesday, is suspected to be arson, having destroyed 150 hectares of grassland overnight. Mugo pointed out, “The incident is suspected to be an arson case, as the fire was spotted in two separate locations.” Some community members erroneously believe that burning grassland fosters regrowth, thereby improving grazing conditions, but these practices can severely disrupt forest ecosystems and biodiversity.

Despite ongoing efforts, firefighting teams faced challenges in controlling the blaze due to strong winds and limited visibility at night. In the Aberdare Forest, crews continued to battle another fire in the Embaringo section. KWS Senior Assistant Director in the Mountain Conservation Area, Lucy Mwati, noted, “We have experienced three fires in the Aberdares since last week. Every time we contain one, another breaks out in a different area due to the hot weather.”

Meanwhile, an additional wildfire in Lolldaiga Conservancy, Laikipia County, has destroyed several acres of vegetation, with its cause still undetermined. This fire began in the southern section of the 45,000-acre conservancy, prompting management to seek assistance from local communities for extinguishing efforts. KFS remains vigilant and prepared for potential further outbreaks, despite having contained recent fires in the Mau, Mt. Kenya, and Aberdare forests. They have reiterated the importance of public vigilance and urged citizens to report any signs of fire to the nearest Forest Station.

Kenya is presently enduring a significant wildfire crisis, with 180 incidents leading to extensive destruction of protected vegetation. Conditions are expected to worsen as the fire season persists, driven by unfavorable weather patterns. KFS is actively engaged in controlling the fires, deploying resources, and educating the public on fire prevention, while continuing to emphasize the importance of vigilance during this critical period.

Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke