Irizi Forest Under Siege as Firefighters Struggle Against Flames and Rugged Terrain

A forest fire is currently affecting large parts of Irizi Forest near Mwatate in Taita Taveta County, Kenya, forcing urgent and sustained firefighting efforts by authorities and humanitarian agencies.

According to a statement from the Kenya Red Cross, the blaze has become difficult to contain due to the region’s rugged terrain, prompting calls for aerial support to support containment operations.

The Kenya Red Cross confirmed that its teams are actively on the ground working alongside the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), county officials, community volunteers, and other partners to extinguish the inferno.

“Kenya Red Cross is on the ground with KWS, partners, authorities and the community,” read part of the statement

The steep and hilly nature of the affected area has made ground operations extremely challenging, slowing progress and placing additional strain on firefighting crews.

“Hilly terrain is challenging containment, and aerial support is being considered.”

Challenging Conditions and Response Efforts

Firefighters are battling not only flames but also the difficult geography that defines the Taita Hills region.

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The slope and dense vegetation in areas like Irizi Forest complicate access for equipment and personnel, requiring careful coordination between ground teams and potential aerial units.

Efforts are now being made to bring in aerial firefighting support, which could include water-bomber aircraft or helicopters, to help suppress the blaze from above.

Residents and community members have also pitched in to help contain the fire where possible, forming human chains to create fire lines and assisting in the evacuation of vulnerable livestock and wildlife from the advancing flames.

Broader Wildfire Risks in Kenya

Forest fires have become a recurring problem in many parts of Kenya, especially during the prolonged dry season, which leaves vegetation highly flammable.

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The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has previously warned of increased wildfire risks across the country due to high temperatures, low humidity, and strong winds, which accelerate the spread of fires once they ignite.

The situation in Taita Taveta highlights long-standing concerns about environmental conservation and wildfire preparedness in county forests and conservation areas.

In recent years, regional fire incidents have prompted calls for enhanced surveillance, community awareness campaigns, and stronger fire-management strategies to mitigate future disasters.

Next Steps and Community Impact

Authorities are now assessing the full scale of damage to the forest ecosystem and determining the immediate needs for both firefighting and eventual rehabilitation of the burned areas.

Nearby communities dependent on forest resources for water catchment, grazing, or eco-tourism are watching closely as efforts continue to control the blaze and minimize losses.

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