A forest fire erupted in the Irizi Forest in Mwatate, Taita Taveta County on Tuesday, February 10, prompting a multi-agency response. Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) helicopters have been deployed to assist in containing the blaze due to challenging hilly terrain.

• Kenya Red Cross and Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) are on the ground battling the fast-spreading fire.
• KWS confirmed the deployment of KDF choppers for swift containment.
• This incident follows a rise in forest fires across Kenya this year, largely attributed to prolonged dry conditions, including one at Lake Nakuru National Park on Friday, February 6, which was successfully contained without injuries.