Over 300 animals killed as human-wildlife conflict worsens

More than 300 domestic animals in Kitui have been devoured by hyenas, lions, leopards and monkeys as human-wildlife conflict escalates in the wake of food scarcity occasioned by poor rains.

A report on the assessment of the food security situation in Kitui shows that the failed March-May long rains have left residents and their livestock without food.

The report compiled by the Kitui County Steering Group on Food Security was for May and early July.

It was released by the Kitui National Drought Management Authority coordinator, Francis Koma.

The report showed that no area in Kitui received 100 per cent rainfall during the season under review. 

It indicates that 382 livestock have been killed and devoured by wild animals leaving farmers counting losses.

The rainfall ranged from between 75 to 5 per cent in extreme cases leading to massive crop failure.

According to the report, 255 goats, 55 heads of cattle and 29 goats’ kids have been killed by lions, hyenas and monkeys in the largely marginal areas of Kitui. Leopards have also killed 20 donkeys.

The report adds that Hyenas have also killed 19 sheep and monkeys have also attacked and killed four puppies in Mwingi central subcounty.

Residents have been hard hit by the attacks on their livestock as they are key in generating income for families especially during times of food scarcity.

“Goats, sheep and poultry are usually sold to cater for basic household needs and income generation. Cattle are reared mostly for milk production, source of farm power and sold for major family investment,” the report said.

Edited by Kiilu Damaris