Environment and Forestry CS Deborah Barasa and other leaders plant a commemorative tree during World Ranger Day celebrations at the Forests Law Enforcement Academy in Mukutani, Baringo County. [Kipsang Joseph, Standard]
A recently planted tree seedling bearing Munyoki Kathinge’s name stood shyly in the hot sun outside the Forests Law Enforcement Academy in Mukutani, along the border of Tiaty and Baringo South.
Beside it, another seedling bore the name of Gideon Waswa, along with the years he served before his life was cut short in the line of duty.
Kathinge had just marked his 30th year of service, while Waswa had completed 23. Within the yard, 12 other young trees, each tagged with a fallen ranger's name, stood in silent rows, enduring the scorching heat.
The 14 trees were planted to honour the 14 lives lost safeguarding Kenya’s forests since the start of the year.
This solemn ceremony was part of this year’s World Ranger Day celebrations, marking 20 years since the global observance was established.
Environment, Climate Change and Forestry Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa, who led the event honouring the officers, emphasised the daily dangers faced by rangers, from confronting armed illegal loggers and poachers to fighting forest fires and securing remote forest boundaries.
“It is our painful memory that this year alone, 14 of our brave rangers have paid the ultimate price and another 40 were injured while protecting our natural resources. No one should think that attacking, injuring, or killing our brave rangers would weaken our resolve to defend all forests,” Dr Barasa stated.