Wildfires Burn Several National Animal Parks in Kenya

Kenyan emergency teams continue to combat wildfires across multiple protected areas, with new developments underscoring both progress and persistent challenges.

Here’s the latest update:

Active Firefighting Efforts

– Nairobi National Park: Two fires erupted on Thursday. The first, near Wilson Airport along the Southern Bypass, was swiftly contained through collaboration between the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and Nairobi County Government. A second blaze in the Athi Basin Dam area, reported at 4:00 PM, remains under active containment. KWS, Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), volunteers, fire engines, and water bowsers are on-site.

– Aberdare Ecosystem: A significant fire between Karuru Falls and Elephant Hill prompted KWS to deploy ground teams and helicopters to access remote zones. This follows three smaller fires in Embaringo, Wanjohi, and Gatare over the past week, now contained.

– Ruma National Park (Homa Bay County): The Nyoyo fire, which ignited yesterday evening, is ongoing. Teams are poised to mobilize at first light to suppress the blaze before temperatures rise. Rapid containment remains a priority.

– South Island National Park (Loiyangalani, Marsabit County)**: A bushfire that ignited on February 17, 2025, in the Marti Esse plains (proposed ASHE Conservancy) burned approximately 60 sq km before being extinguished after four days. Rugged terrain and strong winds complicated efforts.

Containment Progress

– Mt Elgon National Park: A fire that erupted in the **Kimothon Forest** near **Saum** in the forest reserve sparked major concern as it advanced toward critical bamboo forests and the park’s peak. Swift action by KWS and Kenya Forest Service (KFS) rangers successfully suppressed the blaze. Rangers remain on high alert, coordinating further firefighting efforts to prevent flare-ups.

– Tsavo West National Park: Yesterday’s fires have been fully contained.

– Aberdare Ecosystem: Previous outbreaks in Embaringo, Wanjohi, and Gatare are under control, though vigilance continues.

While the exact causes of the Aberdare, South Island, and Mt Elgon fires remain under investigation, human activities (discarded cigarettes, arson, honey harvesting) and extreme dry conditions are suspected contributors. The Mt Elgon fire highlighted risks to ecologically sensitive zones like bamboo forests, while the South Island blaze underscored challenges posed by rugged terrain and adverse weather.

KWS has outlined strategies to curb further outbreaks:

1. Enhanced aerial and ground patrols in high-risk zones.

2. Rapid deployment of firefighting units, including helicopters.

3. Collaboration with communities, county governments, and partners to bolster response networks.

4. Creation of firebreaks and cutlines to isolate future fires.

Public Advisory

Residents and visitors are urged to:

– Adhere to emergency directives.

– Avoid activities that could spark fires (e.g., open flames, discarded cigarettes).

– Report fire hazards immediately to KWS toll free telephone number 0800 597 000 and WhatsApp number 0726661509

KWS extends gratitude to KDF, KFS rangers, volunteers, county agencies, and local communities for their critical support. Collaborative efforts remain vital to safeguarding Kenya’s ecosystems and wildlife.

#KWSWildfireResponse #ProtectOurParks #NairobiNationalParkFireAlert #AberdareFireAlert #RumaNationalParkAlert #MtElgonFireAlert

Note: The successful suppression of the Mt Elgon fire demonstrates the importance of rapid inter-agency coordination, particularly in ecologically fragile areas. Meanwhile, the Nyoyo fire in Ruma National Park highlights the urgency of pre-dawn suppression efforts. Continued vigilance and community engagement are critical as the dry season persists.

Updates to follow as operations progress.