The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has unveiled a new digital system aimed at curbing illegal timber trade, marking a significant step in the country’s efforts to modernise forest management and strengthen environmental conservation.
The Timber Tracker System (TTS) was officially handed over to KFS during a ceremony held at the agency’s headquarters, where officials described the platform as a transformative tool designed to enhance transparency, efficiency, and accountability in the timber value chain.
Developed with support from the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) and in collaboration with Traffic International, the system is expected to digitise the monitoring of timber from harvesting to sale, addressing long-standing gaps that have enabled illicit trade to thrive.
Speaking during the launch, Chief Conservator of Forests Alex Lemarkoko said the system would significantly improve oversight in the sector and reduce reliance on manual processes.
“Once fully operational, the system will enhance efficiency, traceability, and considerably reduce illegal timber trade in Kenya,” Lemarkoko said, reaffirming KFS’s commitment to rolling out the platform nationwide.
The launch event featured a live demonstration of the system’s capabilities, including how timber consignments can be tracked in real time.
Officials also conducted a symbolic handover of a printed TTS homepage and a Point of Sale (POS) device, which will be used in the field to record transactions.
According to KFS, the system will allow authorities to monitor timber traders, species, quantities, and the movement of products from source to destination, creating a comprehensive digital trail intended to deter illegal logging and improve compliance.
William Mauya, a representative from Traffic International, underscored the system’s potential to disrupt illicit supply chains by enhancing transparency across the sector.
“This system closes the loop on timber traceability, ensuring that what leaves the forest can be legally accounted for at the point of sale,” Mauya said.
Illegal logging has long posed a threat to Kenya’s forests, undermining conservation efforts and depriving the government of revenue.
Authorities say the introduction of TTS is part of a broader strategy to leverage technology in addressing environmental crimes and promoting sustainable forest use.
KFS outlined several next steps ahead of full implementation, including the development of a mobile application to complement the platform, the rollout of user guides and checkpoint manuals, and extensive training for officers across the country.
The agency also plans to integrate the system with the Tanzania Forest Service under a bilateral Memorandum of Understanding, a move expected to strengthen cross-border monitoring and cooperation in tackling illegal timber trade in the region.
Officials expressed optimism that the system will not only enhance enforcement but also support legitimate businesses by creating a level playing field for licensed traders.
The introduction of the Timber Tracker System comes as Kenya intensifies efforts to protect its forest resources amid growing concerns over deforestation and environmental degradation.
With digital tracking now at the centre of forest governance, authorities believe the country is better positioned to safeguard its natural resources and promote sustainable development.