Arsonists torch 35,000 acres of vegetation

Kenya: More than 35,000 acres of prime biodiversity have been destroyed at the Ol Ari Nyiro conservancy in suspected arsonist fires that lasted five days.

Conservancy owner, Kuki Gallmann claimed the fires were started by migrating pastoralists who were spotted lighting up portions of the dry vegetation.

Speaking to The Standard on phone, Ms Gallmann said the arsonists systematically set the fires at regular intervals to cause maximum damage.

"These herders have invaded every place in Laikipia. Since the government ordered them out, they are now torching vegetation as a way of revenge," she said.

Gallmann claimed the arsonists had the blessings of some politiciansin the county