Kenya: Forest Rangers play an integral part in forest conservation and management because they guard existing forests and protect newly established ones from damage, especially by human activities.
Their role has been elevated further by the government’s decision to prioritize forest conservation as a way of mitigating the adverse effects of climate change.
The Chief Conservatory Forest (CCF) Alex Lemarkoko joined forest ranger recruits at Soysambu Range in Gilgil, Nakuru County, to observe and assess their training programme, which is expected to end in a month’s time.
Following His Excellency the President’s directive, the Service recruited 2,700 rangers in March this year. These Rangers will join and complement the ones in Service to bring the much needed boost in forest protection. It is expected that the entry of these rangers, in addition to another 600 technical officers, will help accelerate the 30% tree cover target by 2032 set by His Excellency the President.
The Rangers who are in their final phase of training are currently undergoing field craft tactics and range practice before embarking on lessons of opportunity which include basic skills in forestry, human rights-based approaches in forest protection, forestry laws and regulations, communication skills, financial management, first aid, public relations among others. They are also sprucing up on their drills in preparation for the pass-out parade.
The Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF) took time to motivate and urge the young men and women to uphold patriotism and integrity in the execution of their duties. He informed them that they will interact very closely with the community and other government agencies in the management of forests in addition to participating in national duties.
The Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF) was joined by the Ag. Commandant David Chege, the Commanding Officer of the Forest Law Enforcement Academy (FoLEA) SSP Appolinary Mwandigha, among other senior KFS Officers.