Residents to act if KWS fails on Hyena crisis, warns Governor Wamatangi

Wamatangi expressed frustration over unfulfilled promises from various government agencies, stressing the need for urgent action as the death toll from hyena attacks continues to rise.

“Enough is enough. We have no more children or people to sacrifice to these hyenas. We are now ready to take matters into our own hands,” Wamatangi declared. “We will no longer sit and listen to empty promises while our people continue to die."

According to the governor, at least 20 people have been killed by the marauding hyenas, with most of the deaths occurring in Juja. He vowed to ensure that KWS compensates the victims’ families for their losses.

"If you visit the homes that have lost loved ones, none can recall KWS officers offering any condolences or visiting them after the tragedies," he added. "If we keep waiting for KWS to act, we won’t make any progress."

This comes just days after KWS deployed teams to Juja to trap and relocate the hyenas that have terrorized the community for years. 

The latest incidents, including the recent death of a five-year-old boy, Njoroge Gitau, on September 4th, 2024, have raised alarm among locals.

In response, KWS has mobilized additional personnel from Laikipia, Nakuru, and Nairobi to assist in the operation. 

Joseph Dadacha, Senior Assistant Director for the Central Rift Conservation Area, has been appointed by the KWS Director General to lead the efforts.

During a press briefing at Tropical Farm in Nyacaba, Juja, Dadacha outlined the steps being taken, explaining that officers are equipped with advanced tools such as night vision gear, traps, and luring devices.

"We have deployed dozens of officers from different parts of the country, along with the necessary equipment to capture the hyenas. They will remain stationed in Juja until the mission is complete," he stated.

Once the hyenas are captured, they will be relocated to areas far from human settlements to prevent further attacks.