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Kenya’s quest to combat forest fires that continue to eat up its forest cover got a boost after the government received equipment for fire detection from the French government worth Sh2.8 billion.

Speaking at Kenya Forest Service (KFS) Headquarters, Environment Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale said Kenya faces escalating climate change impacts such as prolonged droughts, erratic rainfall, rising temperatures and heightening forest fire risks.

These, he noted, threatened biodiversity, human lives and livelihoods making proactive management a necessity.

The ceremony was graced by France Minister of State for Francophonie and International Partnerships, Thani Mohamed Soilihi.

He noted that the partnership between France and Kenya has spanned decades, yielding impactful projects such as the Mikoko mangrove restoration, Lake Victoria Ecosystem Management and the Kenya Climate-Smart Agriculture Project. The current project introduces cutting-edge technologies for fire detection, surveillance, and suppression.

“It includes drones, advanced firefighting vehicles, PPE, and training to equip Kenya Forest Service teams for effective response,” he said.

The partnership has helped Kenya to erect three masts mounted with cameras fitted with sensors to detect forest fire and the cameras have the capacity to scan through the forest within minutes.

The CS said this collaboration exemplifies the power of technology and global partnerships in tackling climate change. “As we advance, we remain dedicated to sustainable forest management and community involvement.”