Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano has attributed the surge in wildfires in national parks to a combination of human activities and extreme weather conditions.
In a statement on Saturday, March 1, after visiting the Nairobi National Park to assess the damage caused by a wildfire, Miano pointed out that some fires were started by farmers clearing land for farming, honey harvesters, and individuals engaging in arson.
The Tourism CS also observed that some of the cases are due to cultural beliefs that link fire to rainfall.
“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.
“These activities, coupled with prolonged dry conditions and high temperatures, have created an environment highly susceptible to wildfires,” read the statement in part.
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In recent weeks, multiple national parks and protected areas have suffered from wildfires with the Nairobi National Park experiencing two fires on February 28, one breaking out near Wilson Airport and another in the Athi Basin Dam area.
Other protected areas and parks that have experienced fires in recent weeks include the Aberdare Ecosystem, Embaringo, Wanjohi, Gatare, Ruma National Park, South Island National Park, Mt. Elgon National Park, and Tsavo West National Park.
CS Miano noted that the government has mobilized all available resources to combat the wildfires in parks.
She 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.
Miano also commended local communities for their vigilance in reporting fires and assisting in containment efforts.
“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,” the Tourism CS remarked.
