Over the past year, 16 rangers lost their lives, with five of these fatalities occurring while they were on duty. According to the Kenya Forest Service (KFS), 11 rangers died due to harsh and extreme working conditions, while 33 others sustained serious injuries while confronting illegal loggers, with some now reliant on wheelchairs.
KFS, which oversees 6.4 million acres of gazetted forests and an additional 420 million acres under county management, shared these figures as Kenya marked World Rangers Day. This day honors the dedication of rangers who protect natural and cultural heritage.
Rangers from KFS commemorated the day at their headquarters, while those from the Kenya Wildlife Service observed it across various locations in the country. Kunal Chowdhari, KFS board chairman, emphasized the vital role rangers play in conservation under challenging conditions.
“In the fiscal year 2023-2024, we recorded 33 injuries and lost 16 rangers in the line of duty,” Chowdhari said.
Rangers face difficult working conditions, long hours, and significant risks as they work to protect endangered species and ecosystems. Their responsibilities include intercepting forest offenders, preventing illegal logging, managing forest fires, curbing illegal grazing, and securing forest boundaries.
KFS chief conservator Alex Lemarkoko, represented by principal deputy chief conservator of forests Charity Munyasia, outlined ongoing efforts to improve ranger welfare, including comprehensive medical coverage, performance recognition, housing provisions, and timely promotions. Additionally, KFS is adopting technology to enhance ranger efficiency, including unmanned aerial vehicles for surveillance and an application called Survey 1-2-3 for monitoring and reporting forest crimes. The service is also developing national radio communication and surveillance infrastructure to further strengthen forest protection and security.
