Fires in Nairobi and Ruma national parks persist as emergency teams battle to contain them
Authorities suspect that the fires were caused by human activities such as discarded cigarettes, arson and honey harvesting, combined with extremely dry conditions.
Two active wildfires continue to threaten protected areas in Kenya, with emergency teams working around the clock to bring them under control.
The fires in Nairobi National Park and Ruma National Park remain a key concern as firefighters battle challenging conditions amid the dry season.
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As reported by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) on Saturday morning, a fire broke out near Wilson Airport along the Southern Bypass on Thursday but was quickly contained through joint efforts by the KWS and Nairobi County firefighters.
However, another fire that ignited at the Athi Basin Dam area at 4 pm the same day remains uncontained.
"Efforts to put out the flames are ongoing, with KWS, the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), volunteers, and emergency response teams working on-site using fire engines and water bowsers", KWS stated.
In Ruma National Park, Homa Bay County, another blaze dubbed the 'Nyoyo fire' has been burning since Friday evening.
Firefighters were planning to launch a suppression effort early Saturday morning before temperatures rise and worsen the situation.
"Our priority is to contain the fire before conditions become more challenging during the day," KWS added.
Other fires contained
Several other wildfires reported across the country have been successfully put out.
The Kenya Wildlife Service confirmed that fires in the Aberdare Ecosystem (Embaringo, Wanjohi, and Gatare), South Island National Park, Tsavo West National Park, and Mt Elgon National Park have been contained.
The Mt Elgon fire had raised serious concerns as it spread toward vital bamboo forests and the park's peak, but coordinated efforts by KWS and Kenya Forest Service (KFS) rangers managed to suppress it.
Authorities suspect that the fires were caused by human activities such as discarded cigarettes, arson and honey harvesting, combined with extremely dry conditions.
However, KWS says investigations are ongoing to determine the exact causes.
Aerial and ground patrols
To prevent further outbreaks, KWS has intensified aerial and ground patrols, deployed rapid-response firefighting units, and is working with local communities and county governments to strengthen response networks.
Firebreaks and cutlines are also being established to isolate future fires.
In addition, KWS has called on residents and visitors to follow emergency directives, avoid activities that could spark fires, and report any fire hazards immediately.
The agency thanked the Kenya Defence Forces, Kenya Forest Service, county authorities, volunteers and local communities for their support in combating the fires.
"As the dry season continues, we urge everyone to stay alert and take precautions to protect our national parks and wildlife," KWS said.
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