Kenya Forest Service Explains How it Uses AI to Detect Forest Fires

The Principal Secretary for Forestry, Gitonga Mugambi, and Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF) Alex Lemarkoko, undertook an aerial assessment of the wildfire in Ontulili Forest at Sirimon near Sirimon Gate, where flames are spreading through a gorge toward the steep slopes of River Sirimon.

In a statement, the  Kenya Forest Service said prolonged dry conditions and unsafe honey-harvesting practices caused the blaze.

The agency added that its AI-enabled static aerial patrol system detected the fire immediately, enabling rapid mobilization and real-time command decisions.

“The blaze, linked to prolonged dry conditions and unsafe honey-harvesting practices, was detected within seconds by the Kenya Forest Service AI-enabled static aerial patrol system, enabling rapid mobilization and real-time command decisions,” KFS said.

Ground Operations

KFS stated that ground operations are being executed through a coordinated multi-agency response involving KFS, KWS, Rhino Ark, Mount Kenya Trust, and Community Forest Associations.

The Agencies are under the supervision of the County Forest Conservator and the County Commander at Sirimon Gate.

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Kenya Forest Service Enhanced Surveillance

Kenya Forest Service said enhanced surveillance, reinforcement of firebreaks, community sensitization, and strict enforcement continue to anchor its strategy to contain the fire and protect critical water catchments.

The agency added that these measures aim to strengthen forest resilience amid intensifying climate conditions.

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“Enhanced surveillance, firebreak reinforcement, community sensitization, and strict enforcement continue to anchor KFS’s strategy to contain the fire, protect critical water catchments, and strengthen forest resilience amid intensifying climate conditions,” KFS added.

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Forestry PS Gitonga Mugambi and CCF Alex Lemarkoko undertook an aerial assessment of the wildfire in Ontulili Forest at Sirimon near Sirimon Gate. PHOTO/KFS.