Kenya Forest Service (KFS) serves as the guardian of Kenya’s precious forest resources. They also implement strategies for resource maximization and increasing the country’s forest cover.

The state has assigned Kenya Forest Service, as a key stakeholder, to ensure the country achieves 30% forest cover nationwide by 2032.

Similarly, Kenya Forest Service is an equal opportunity employer, regularly advertising open positions each year to attract talent. Like many other government roles, candidates must meet certain requirements to be accepted.

Joining the Kenya Forest Service is not easy. Whenever recruitment vacancies open, many Kenyans apply, but only a few are chosen to move on to the next level.

KFS Requirements

1. Must be a citizen of Kenya
2. Must have their National ID card
3. Must present a Certificate of Good Conduct from the DCI
4. Should be aged between 18 and 28 years
5. Must be physically and mentally fit
6. Must have a diploma or certificate in forestry from a recognized institution
7. Males must have a minimum height of 5.6 ft; females must be 5.3ft
8. Familiarity with computer packages

KFS Job Application

Applying for a KFS position is straightforward, but many people make mistakes and realize it too late. Candidates must follow the job application rules to avoid disqualification.

The most sought-after position within the Kenya Forest Service is the Forest Ranger role, attracting many applicants from all 47 counties. The entry requirements for Forest Ranger and Forest Assistant II and III roles share several similarities.

Here are the steps to follow when applying for the Ranger and Forest Assistant posts at Kenya Forest Service:

1. Visit the KFS online recruitment portal, sign up using your email or ID number and create a password. These credentials will be used to log in and check your application status.
2. Locate the advertised posts and select the option for which you qualify.
3. Click ‘Apply’, complete all required information, and upload the necessary documents. Click ‘Submit’ when finished.
4. Check your email for the application notification and print it out.
5. Make copies of the application notification, ID, and academic certificates.
6. Send the physical copies of these documents to:

Here are some of the most common recruitment centres for the Kenya Forest Service during recruitment drives across the country:

• Tononoka Grounds in Mombasa
• Kibaki Grounds in Lamu
• Nanyuki Stadium in Laikipia
• Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi
• Migori Stadium in Migori
• ASK Grounds in Nakuru
• Kericho Green Stadium in Kericho
• Kenyatta Stadium in Trans-nzoia
• Iten Grounds in Elgeyo Marakwet
• Bukhungu Stadium in Kakamega

Before training, candidates will undergo medical tests to identify any underlying conditions they may have. The training will last nine months and take place at the KFS college in Londiani, Kericho County.

Salaries

Kenya Forest Service employees receive decent pay for their duties in protecting forests from exploitation and fire outbreaks. Their jobs are also permanent and pensionable.

While official salary information is not in the public domain, sources privy to the amounts note that it stands between Sh. 25,000 and Sh. 90,000. Salaries vary due to factors such as experience and academic qualifications.

Reportedly, new forest rangers salaries start at Sh. 25,000 which may increase to between Sh. 35,000 and Sh. 45,000 after 2 years.

Those with over 15 years in the service and hold high ranks can earn well above Sh. 130,000 inclusive of allowances.