KFS recalls officers from leave to tackle surging forest fires

“The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) maintains a high fire danger rating across all its stations."

"The current dry weather conditions, characterized by high temperatures, low humidity, and strong winds, are creating an extremely high risk of forest fires. The rapid drying up of vegetation and the accumulation of combustible materials further exacerbate the situation,” a press release read in part.

With forest fires continuing to spread across the country, KFS has intensified efforts to combat the crisis, including recalling staff on leave to boost firefighting operations.

Additional measures include deploying more firefighting equipment and installing advanced smoke detection systems in the Mt. Kenya, Aberdares, and Mau ecosystems to enhance monitoring and early response.

To curb human-induced fires, KFS has issued a warning against burning vegetation near forested areas. If burning is necessary, individuals must notify the nearest KFS office and police station in writing at least 48 hours in advance.

In a fire situation update released on Thursday, February 27, KFS assured the public that it remains on high alert and fully prepared to handle further fire outbreaks.

Although recent fires in the Mau, Mt. Kenya, and Aberdare forest ecosystems have been contained, KFS warns that the fire risk remains high and could persist until mid-March 2025. The agency urges the public to stay vigilant and report any signs of fire immediately to the nearest Forest Station.