The Chief Conservator of Forests Mr. Julius Kamau conducted an aerial and ground surveillance of Mt. Kenya Forest Reserve to assess fire suppression efforts by Kenya Forest Service and conservation partners following a reported fire incident at Ebenezer area of Kangaita Forest Block in Ontulili forest station on Tuesday 2nd February, 2021.
Following detection of the fire incident which started on Monday, a fire fighting crew comprising of officers from KFS, KWS and scouts from Mt. Kenya Trust was quickly mobilised and efforts to suppress it commenced.
The aerial surveillance estimated approximately 2Ha of forest land having been consumed by the fire. The affected area largely comprised of the low vegetation, ferns and shrubs on the slopes of the mountain.
The team also noted that the fire has been suppressed and the fire fighters have been inspecting the area to ensure it is completely safe from any reignition.
Mr. Kamau has thanked the team for responding swiftly to the fire following its detection. He commended the team for the operation which commenced at the break of dawn before extreme winds and rise in temperatures could exacerbate the fire.
The CCF also appreciated the support by the National Air Support Department (NASD) towards supporting KFS aerial capacity to enhance forest conservation and protection.
Mt. Kenya forest ecosystem is one of the critical water towers in the country serving as a catchment area for major rivers and as a host to wildlife.
During the exercise, the CCF was joined by Ms. Beatrice Mbula (Head of Eastern Conservancy), Mr. John Njoroge (Meru Ecosystem Conservator), and Mr. Sylvanus Simuyu (Ontulili Forest Station Manager).