Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi has issued a stern warning to the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), threatening that local residents may take matters into their own hands if ongoing hyena attacks are not addressed promptly.
The governor’s statement comes amid rising tensions and increasing fatalities due to hyena attacks in the region. Wamatangi expressed frustration over unfulfilled promises from government agencies and demanded immediate action. “Enough is enough,” he declared. “We will no longer tolerate these attacks.”
At least 20 people have been reported dead from hyena attacks, with most incidents occurring in Juja. The recent death of a five-year-old boy, Njoroge Gitau, on September 4th, has further fueled community alarm.
In response to the escalating situation, KWS has deployed additional personnel and equipment to capture the hyenas. Joseph Dadacha, Senior Assistant Director for the Central Rift Conservation Area, is leading the operation.
Once captured, the hyenas will be relocated to areas far from human settlements. Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano has also directed KWS to take swift action to stop further attacks.
Despite these efforts, Governor Wamatangi remains skeptical about the effectiveness of the measures taken so far. He vowed to ensure that KWS compensates the victims’ families and called for more decisive action to protect the community.
