NAIROBI, Kenya- Kenya has taken a major step in the fight against illegal logging following the launch of a new digital system designed to track timber from forest to market.
The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) on Tuesday officially received the Timber Tracker System (TTS) during a handover ceremony at its headquarters, marking a milestone in efforts to modernise forest management and strengthen oversight of the timber trade.
Boosting Transparency and Accountability
The system, developed with support from the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs and technical collaboration from TRAFFIC International, is designed to improve traceability, efficiency and accountability in the timber supply chain.
Officials said the platform will enable authorities to monitor timber movement from source to point of sale, helping to curb illegal trade and ensure compliance with forestry regulations.
Speaking during the launch, Chief Conservator of Forests Alex Lemarkoko said the system represents a shift from manual processes to automation.
“Once fully operational, the system will enhance efficiency, traceability and considerably reduce illegal timber trade in Kenya,” he said.
KFS Launches Timber Tracker System to Curb Illegal Timber Trade The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) today officially received the Timber Tracker System (TTS) during a handover ceremony at its headquarters, marking a major milestone in the country’s push to digitize timber trade
How the System Works
The Timber Tracker System is expected to:
- Track timber traders, species and quantities
- Monitor movement of forest products across checkpoints
- Provide real-time data for enforcement and compliance
- Link forest production to verified points of sale
A live demonstration of the platform was conducted during the launch, alongside the symbolic handover of a printed system interface and a Point of Sale (POS) device.
According to William Mauya, the system will “close the loop” in timber traceability.
“This ensures that what leaves the forest can be legally accounted for at the point of sale,” he said, noting that transparency is key to dismantling illicit supply chains.
Regional Collaboration and Next Steps
KFS said the rollout will include the development of a mobile application, user guides and checkpoint manuals, as well as nationwide training for forest officers.
The agency is also working to integrate the system with the Tanzania Forest Service under a bilateral agreement, a move expected to strengthen cross-border monitoring of timber trade.
Tackling Illegal Logging
Illegal timber trade remains a significant challenge in Kenya, contributing to forest degradation, loss of biodiversity and reduced government revenue.
Authorities say the introduction of the Timber Tracker System will not only improve enforcement but also support sustainable forest management and conservation efforts.
Towards Digital Forestry Management
The launch reflects a broader push by the government to embrace digital solutions in environmental governance, using technology to enhance transparency and accountability.
Once fully implemented, officials believe the system will play a critical role in ensuring that timber harvesting and trade in Kenya is legal, traceable and sustainable.
