Kenya: Forest protection is important as forest crimes and climate change pose significant environmental threats. One key aspect of effective forest protection is rigorous and comprehensive ranger training.
In essence, the importance of ranger training in safeguarding forests, the skills and knowledge rangers acquire through training, and their impact on preserving our forest resources cannot be gain said.
According to SSP Apollinary Mwandigha, the Commanding Officer Forest Law Enforcement Academy, rangers play a crucial role in forest protection, as they are on the frontlines of combating illegal activities.
They are duty-bearers of the forests, enforcing laws and regulations, conducting patrols, and taking action against those who harm the ecosystem. Therefore, proper training equips rangers with the skills to effectively fulfil these responsibilities.
He says FoLEA, the KFS ranger training college, is incorporating training programs that cover a wide range of skills and knowledge necessary for effective forest protection. These include identifying and monitoring endangered species, conducting investigations, collecting evidence, firefighting skills, navigation, survival techniques, and human rights-based approaches in forest protection. By acquiring these skills, rangers are better equipped to address threats and ensure the sustainable management of forests.
The ranger’s role includes enforcing laws and regulations related to forest protection. Mwandigha notes that through training, rangers learn about the legal framework surrounding conservation efforts, including environmental laws and international conventions.
This knowledge enables them to effectively carry out their duties, such as arresting and prosecuting individuals engaged in illegal activities. Ranger training plays a significant role in deterring potential offenders through increased law enforcement capabilities.
Forest protection requires maintaining a harmonious relationship with resource-adjacent communities.
“Our training approach emphasizes the importance of community engagement, enabling rangers to build trust, understand local cultures, and work collaboratively with communities. We are training them on effective communication skills and conflict resolution techniques to ensure positive relationships that benefit both the forests and the people who depend on forests,” says Mwandigha.
We are also training rangers on technical skills to equip them with the tools they need to combat threats to forests more efficiently. These skills include the use of advanced technologies and equipment to aid in forest protection efforts. Rangers learn how to utilize GPS systems, drones, and other technological innovations to conduct surveillance, monitor illegal activities, and gather evidence.
“Our training programs are not one-time events but are part of a continuous education process,” observes Mwandigha. Ongoing training and professional development opportunities are essential for rangers to stay updated on the latest techniques, technologies, and research related to forest protection.
He says that regular training ensures that rangers continue to improve their skills, adapt to evolving threats, and remain effective in their roles.
Ranger training serves as a critical foundation for effective forest protection. Through comprehensive training programmes, rangers acquire the necessary skills, knowledge, and technological expertise to combat deforestation and illegal activities in our forests. By investing in ranger training, we empower these frontline defenders and ensure the preservation of our precious natural resources for future generations to enjoy.