Hundreds of acres of Mutito Forest in Kitui have been reduced to ashes following a fierce fire that started mid last week.
Strong winds being experienced in the area are said to be hampering efforts to contain the fire that is almost consuming half of the forest land.
Mutito forest in Kitui is on fire and locals have been trying to complement efforts of the county firefighters to contain the situation.
A farmer from the area has been arrested for allegedly starting the wildfire after leaving burning waste unattended while preparing his fields for the planting season.
The forest fire was first sighted by vigilant Community Forest Association members who informed the area forester and rangers.
Efforts by officers from Kenya Wildlife Service, Kenya Forests Service and the local community to put off the fire have been by strong winds, difficult terrain and lack of access roads.
The county administration is calling on the National Disaster Management team including Kenya Defence Forces to move in and help contain the inferno.