KWS launches new measures after hyena kills child in Juja

Nairobi National Park in Nairobi. [ Standard, File]

The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has vowed to intensify efforts to address escalating human-wildlife conflict following the death of a 5-year-old boy in Juja, Kiambu.

The child was attacked by a hyena on the evening of Wednesday, September 4, near Flat Estate in Witeithie location.

In a statement on Thursday, September 5, KWS expressed condolences to the victim's family and announced its commitment to increased measures.

"We deeply regret the tragic loss of the young child and are working hard to prevent further incidents," said KWS.

The Service noted that managing wildlife outside protected areas poses challenges, as many animals move seasonally in search of food and water.

KWS launched Operation Ondoa Fisi-2 on August 8 in response to previous attacks in Juja, which had claimed another young victim.

The operation, which aims to track and relocate hyenas, has so far captured 38 of the animals and sealed 12 quarries used as their hideouts.

KWS urged residents to report any sightings of hyenas through its 24/7 hotline.

Police said the boy's body was discovered hours after the attack, leading to protests by locals who blocked Thika Highway for hours on Thursday.

The residents demanded urgent action, vowing to eliminate all hyenas in the area themselves.

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua previously promised increased government intervention, stating that multi-agency teams would be deployed to track and trap hyenas in Kiambu's Juja estates.