The Kenyan government has mobilized all available resources, and deployed additional firefighting teams, equipment, and personnel to National Parks that were recently affected by fire outbreaks.
This was revealed on Saturday March 1, 2025 when Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary (CS) Rebecca Miano visited Nairobi National Park to assess the damage caused by recent wildfires.
Miano emphasized the importance of collaboration in wildfire response efforts, acknowledging the support of county governments, the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), the Kenya Forest Service (KFS), and international partners.
During the visit, the Tourism CS commended the courageous efforts of firefighters, KWS rangers, and partners in containing the blazes.
Accompanied by the Kenya Wildlife Service Director General, Prof. Erustus Kanga, the Tourism CS addressed first responders at the affected site, where 210 acres of the park’s ecosystem were destroyed.
Speaking at the scene near Mlolongo and Athi River, 40 kilometres from the main gate on Langata Road, Miano expressed concern over the increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires across Kenya’s national parks and protected areas, emphasizing that these fires pose a significant threat to wildlife, ecosystems, and local communities.
She noted that all wildfires across the country have been successfully contained, except for an ongoing blaze in Ruma National Park in Homa Bay County, where firefighters are working tirelessly to bring it under control.
In recent weeks, multiple national parks and protected areas have suffered from wildfires.
Nairobi National Park experienced two fires on February 29, with one breaking out near Wilson Airport along the Southern Bypass and another in the Athi Basin Dam area. While both were swiftly contained, the fires left behind significant destruction, with over 210 acres of parkland burned.
Other affected areas included the Aberdare Ecosystem, where a major fire between Karuru Falls and Elephant Hill required coordinated efforts involving both ground teams and aerial firefighting support.
Additional smaller fires in Embaringo, Wanjohi, and Gatare were also successfully contained.
The Cabinet Secretary attributed the recent surge in wildfires to a combination of human activities and extreme weather conditions.
She highlighted that some fires were started by honey harvesters, farmers clearing land for cultivation, and individuals engaging in arson.
In certain cases, cultural beliefs linking fire to rainfall also contributed to deliberate ignitions, while careless smoking and the improper disposal of cigarette butts further exacerbated the problem.
Recognizing the need for long-term solutions, the government is strengthening fire management strategies, including the enhancement of early warning systems, the creation of firebreaks, and the implementation of community education programs to raise awareness about fire prevention.
While a full assessment of the impact on wildlife is still underway, she assured that KWS teams are actively engaged in the rescue and rehabilitation of affected animals, and plans are in place to restore damaged habitats.
The Cabinet Secretary also called upon all Kenyans to take an active role in preventing wildfires by exercising caution and reporting any outbreaks immediately.
She urged the public to avoid open flames, properly dispose of cigarette butts, and support efforts to safeguard the country’s natural heritage.
“Kenya’s wildlife and natural ecosystems are invaluable resources that must be protected for future generations. The government remains fully committed to ensuring their preservation through proactive measures and collective responsibility,” she said.
