East African Gazette
Kenya
The government of Kenya has linked the rise in hyena attacks to the hyena population that has grown in Kenya’s national parks.
Dr. Alfred Mutua, the Tourism Cabinet Secretary, has connected this overpopulation to the recent drought in 2023.
He explained that the hyenas have been feeding on the carcasses of animals that have succumbed to the drought, which has led to them becoming a nuisance and freely roaming in communities.
These attacks have been reported in Nairobi, Juja, Mchakos, Makueni, Simna Hills, and other places, particularly during the night.
Mutua made these revelations while flagging off the recruitment of the National Youth Service (NYS) in Kilifi County at the Karisa Maitha Grounds.
He emphasized that many animals, including elephants and giraffes, have fallen victim to the drought, and the hyenas have taken advantage of the carcasses to reproduce.
In light of these attacks, he urged communities living near forests and national parks to avoid walking at night.
The Kenya Wildlife Services (KWS) officers have been deployed to track down the roaming hyenas.
Mutua also mentioned that efforts are being made to educate the community on coexisting harmoniously with wildlife.
Compensation of victims
He disclosed that payouts to some victims of attacks by wildlife totaling approximately Ksh700 million (about $4.39 million) has been made.
Mutua stated that although budgetary difficulties have prevented the government from paying victims of wildlife attacks since 2019, the administration is still dedicated to making sure those affected receive justice.
“It will require some time due to the financial difficulties brought on by the unstable economy,” he said.
However, he stressed that the government will prioritize paying compensation for wildlife-related deaths first.
In order to expedite the process, he stated that an additional team of officials is now confirming the claimants’ documentation on the ground.