In 2019, Kenya Forest Service Chairman Peter Kinyua confirmed 95% containment of the Mount Kenya forest fire, though 35,000 acres of vegetation were destroyed. The blaze, which originated in the wider Mount Kenya region, remained active in parts of the Aberdare ranges and Shamata moorland.
Combined efforts by Kenya Wildlife Service, Kenya Forest Service, and NGOs suppressed most of the fire. Five water bowsers were deployed to Nyahururu airstrip to supply crop duster planes capable of carrying 2,000 liters of water. Recent rainfall in southern Mount Kenya also aided containment efforts.
Kinyua stated the fire could be fully extinguished by Sunday, depending on weather conditions. However, ongoing flames near Satima and Shamata threatened central Aberdare moorlands. Environment and Forestry Cabinet Secretary Keriako Tobiko emphasized the need for increased funding to address future forest fire risks.
