Mt Kenya fires finally put out

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A scenic view of the Mt Kenya forest slopes before the fire. The raging fire that consumed an estimated 10 per cent of Mt Kenya for the last nine days has been contained by a combined effort of various agencies and the local communities.

The raging fire that has consumed an estimated 10 per cent of Mt Kenya for the last nine days has been contained by a combined effort of various agencies and the local communities.
There are no more active burning fires in the mountain. However, logs are still smoldering in isolated parts.
Small teams of fire-fighters from Kenya Wildlife Service and Kenya Forest Service are monitoring the smoldering fires and putting them out.
The big mammal species like elephants, buffalos, bush bucks and the primates have been moved away from the fire. However, an unknown number of smaller invertebrates and reptiles like snakes were killed by the fire.
We would like to advise the public to be careful when handling fires during this dry weather conditions. 
From our investigations, we have determined that the fires in Mt Kenya were caused by arsonists with ill intentions.
A second fire has also been burning in the neighbouring Aberdare ranges. This has also largely been contained.
We appeal to the public to volunteer information to government agencies on suspects who could be lighting these fires as well as report any outbreaks of new fires.
We would like to thank the following organisations for their invaluable support in fighting the fire:

• Kenya Forest Service
• Kenya Police
• Kenya Army
• National Youth Service 
• British Army
• Lady Lori
• Born Free Foundation
• Mountain Club of Kenya
• Serena Hotels
• Naromoru River Lodge
• Mt Kenya Tourist Circuit
• Cieni Plains Company
• Popular Traders