KWS condemns MP Guyo Ali Wario over incitement leading to Tsavo East Park tensions

This follows a deadly confrontation on Sunday, December 29, where armed herders attacked KWS officers with poisoned arrows, leading to the fatal shooting of one herder during a routine patrol at Yakalicha, 16 kilometers inside the park.

KWS has attributed the growing tension in the park to Guyo’s alleged incitement of local communities to illegally invade the park under false promises of acquiring land. The Service reported that such actions have led to the construction of makeshift settlements, armed herding, and significant environmental degradation in protected areas.

“This incitement has created an atmosphere of hostility that endangers both wildlife and KWS personnel,” KWS said in a statement. “We strongly condemn the continued incitement by Hon. Guyo Ali Wario, which has escalated tensions and contributed to the unfortunate incident at Yakalicha.”

KWS highlighted that armed herding and illegal settlements have displaced wildlife, increased poaching, and caused severe ecological damage. In November 2024, this hostility culminated in the burning of a police station and the displacement of a KWS security base at Kalalani inside South Kitui National Reserve, further compromising public safety.

The Service lamented the loss of a historically harmonious relationship with the local Kone community and expressed its condolences to the family of the deceased herder.

KWS reiterated that illegal entry into national parks and armed incursions violate the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act, Cap 376, and urged communities to respect protected areas.

The incident has been reported to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) offices in Mutomo, Kitui County, and Garsen, Tana River County. Crime scene investigation teams are already working to determine the circumstances of the altercation.

KWS pledged full cooperation with investigators and reaffirmed its dedication to protecting Kenya’s wildlife heritage.

“Illegal activities in protected areas jeopardize the safety of our personnel, wildlife, and local communities. We urge all stakeholders to work collaboratively to resolve these tensions peacefully,” the statement concluded.