Morocco raises awareness of forest fire risk as summer approaches

The Sakina forest on the outskirts of Kenitra (45 kilometres north of Rabat) is popular with picnicking families, enjoying an afternoon barbecue shaded from the summer sun by trees.

The 150 hectares park regularly attracts between 5,000 to 10,000 visitors per day, with the majority bringing a meal to cook in the open air.

The fires are a source of worry for park ranger Ahmed Araba:

“The first problem we face in this urban park is fire, especially during the summer season. We have a problem with the first time visitors who bring their raw food here to cook it. When…