Fire guts 70ha of Aberdare forest in Nyandarua

Fire burning bushes in Aberdare Forest. [Image: Courtesy]

A fierce fire has ravaged the Aberdare rain-forest in Nyandarua, destroying more than 70 hectares of vegetation.

The fire which is believed to have started on Sunday evening was reported at the Kinangop peak and has since spread to other areas.

It is suspected to have been started by honey harvesters who have invaded the forest as it is the harvesting season.

Mt Kenya Kenya Wildlife Service boss Bajila Kofa today said the fire has since spread to other areas due to the strong winds.

"We have since deployed our officers who are accompanied by other residents. It has been made difficult for us to put it off especially due to the winds. Most of the land that has been destroyed is that where there are bamboo trees," said Kofa.

He noted that they were still seeking the assistance of other government agencies to put it off.

"We have added other officers and soon, the Kenya police, National Youth Service and other officers will join us. There is no rain at the forest and that is we will require their assistance," he said.

Kofa noted that the fire season was on and all residents should be careful while carrying out their duties near the forest.

"This is the honey harvesting season and we should not take anything lightly. We have to be curious while operating in areas near forest land," he said.

He at the same time cautioned poachers against carrying out the activity in the forest.

"They take the advantage and carry out poaching activities while we are busy putting out the fire. I want to warn them that we will not allow this to happen," he said.