Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Kenya wildfires largely contained

Wildfires affecting Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania and Mount Kenya in Kenya have been largely brought under control, though hotspots remain. In Tanzania, the blaze began on September 3 in the Kikelelwa area of Kilimanjaro National Park. Tanzania National Parks (TANAPA) reported that the fire was more than 90 per cent contained within the first few days, with teams working to extinguish smouldering vegetation in difficult terrain.

Despite the fires, tourism activities and climbing routes on Mount Kilimanjaro remain open and safe. No deaths or injuries have been reported, and investigations into the cause of the blaze are ongoing. Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Dr. Ashatu Kijaji, has called for increased vigilance to prevent future fires in protected areas.

On Mount Kenya, firefighting efforts have involved a joint response from the Kenya Wildlife Service, Kenya Forest Service, and various conservation groups. While many fires have been significantly reduced, some areas continue to burn, requiring ground teams to manage flare-ups.