Kenya and France have launched a 22 million Euro project to improve forest fire management using modern technology.
The initiative, launched at the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) headquarters, Karura, Kiambu and jointly funded by both governments, will focus on the Mau, Aberdare and Mt. Kenya ecosystems across 14 counties identified as forest fire hotspots. They include Kiambu, Nyeri, Nyandarua, Muranga, Kirinyaga, Nakuru, Baringo, Kericho, Narok, Uasin Gishu, Bomet, Meru Tharaka Nithi and Embu.
The project was inaugurated by France’s Minister of State for Francophone and International Cooperation, Thani Soilihi and Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate Change and Forestry, Aden Duale.
Central to the initiative is the deployment of a Digital Radio Network and Early Fire Video Detection system designed to improve real-time fire detection and enhance response coordination.
“The launch of the Kenya Forest Service Digital Radio Network and Early Fire Video Detection Facility in Nairobi marks a major step in enhancing forest fire management,” Duale said.
He pointed out that the initiative underscores the Government’s commitment to protecting our forests and biodiversity while emphasizing on the power of global collaboration in driving sustainable climate solutions.
Duale added that the project aimed at building institutional capacity to address forest fire threats, contributing to Kenya’s strategic goal of achieving and maintaining 30 percent tree cover for environmental stability.
Soilihi emphasized the importance of international cooperation, noting that forest fires were a growing global challenge.
“This partnership demonstrates the need for shared solutions to protect vital ecosystems,” he said.
The project will focus on establishing effective fire detection and telecommunication systems by training and equipping firefighters using modern tools.
Equipment already supplied includes graders, medium firefighting vehicles, drones and various personal protective suits.
In addition, the 28-month initiative will also establish a training centre at the Kenya Forestry College in Londiani to equip forest officers with skills in fire suppression, surveillance and digital communication.
Present were Principal Secretaries Mugambi Gitonga and Eng. Festus Ng’eno, State Department of Forestry and State Department for Environment & Climate Change respectively, French Ambassador to Kenya Arnaud Suquet, Kenya Forest Service Board Chair Titus Korir and Chief Conservator of Forests Alex Lemarkoko.
By Sylvia Wanjohi
