CS Miano to visit Nairobi National Park

Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano will today, March 1, visit Nairobi National Park.

In a statement, KWS Senior Corporate Communications Manager/Spokesperson Paul Udoto said CS Miano will visit the park in the afternoon.

According to KWS, this is in light of the recent outbreak of wildfires in various national parks across the country.

"The visit will include the following activities: Assessment of the Fire Situation - A firsthand evaluation of the affected areas, briefing from KWS Leadership - An update on the current status and ongoing efforts to contain the fires and encouragement to firefighters - A morale-boosting session with the teams on the ground," KWS said.

KWS also stated that there would be a media briefing to address the public and provide updates on the situation.

On February 28, KWS reported that two fire incidents had erupted at the Nairobi National Park on Thursday.

According to the Kenya Wildlife Service, the first fire, 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, remained under active containment. KWS, Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), volunteers, fire engines, and water bowsers are on-site," the statement read in part.

According to the agency, wildfires have been reported in multiple parks amid the dry season, but the agency is taking measures to curb the infernos.

"Firefighting units, including helicopters, collaboration with communities, county governments, and partners to bolster response networks. Creation of firebreaks and cutlines to isolate future fires." 

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

KWS extended gratitude to KDF, KFS rangers, volunteers, county agencies, and local communities for their critical support.

On February 26, dozens of personnel from the Kenya Wildlife Service and Kenya Forest Service joined in efforts to contain the spread of a fire at the Aberdare and Mt Kenya Forests.

Officials said the fire broke out separately and was spreading fast.

KWS Senior Assistant Director in the Mountain Conservation Area, Lucy Mwati, said separate teams are fighting an active fire in the Embaringo section of Aberdare Forest.