The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has officially received the Timber Tracker System (TTS) at its headquarters, marking a significant advancement in digital timber trade management.
Developed with support from the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) and technical expertise from Traffic International, the system aims to improve traceability, optimize operations, and combat illegal timber activities.
The handover ceremony included a live platform demonstration and the symbolic presentation of a printed TTS homepage along with a Point of Sale device.
Implementation priorities include creating a mobile application, distributing user guides and checkpoint manuals, nationwide officer training, and integrating with Tanzania’s Forest Service through a bilateral agreement.
Chief Conservator of Forests Alex Lemarkoko emphasized KFS’s dedication to complete national implementation and transition from manual processes.
“This system will boost efficiency and traceability while substantially decreasing illegal timber trade in Kenya once fully operational,” Lemarkoko stated.
Traffic International representative William Mauya highlighted the system’s contribution to timber supply chain transparency.
“The solution completes timber traceability, ensuring forest-origin timber can be legally verified at sales points,” Mauya explained.
Upon full deployment, the system will facilitate comprehensive monitoring of timber traders, species, quantities, and product movements from harvest to final destination.