KWS launches new measures after hyena kills child in Juja
Environment & Climate
By
David Njaaga
| Sep 05, 2024
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.
READ MORE
Higher education at crossroads amid budget cuts, new funding model
State's share sale plan major boon for retail investors
How RBA plans to double pension assets
Manufacturing and agriculture top sectors to boost the economy
Coffee farmers seek recruitment of more direct settlement service staff
Mary-Ann Musangi elected Chairperson of Women in Manufacturing Committee
Bangbet in trademark dispute, says it has lost millions
Boom for farmers, factory releases Sh616m tea bonus
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.
- Hold me accountable, question my decisions, Ruto says
- Ruto pledges to give Sh13 billion to lenders, insists on AU reforms