Kiambu Governor Wamatangi Breaks Silence on Ongoing Hyena Attacks in Juja

Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi has voiced grave concern over the ongoing hyena attacks in Juja, which have resulted in the tragic loss of 22 lives. 

His remarks come in response to the most recent attack that claimed the life of a five-year-old boy in Nyacaba, Witeithie Ward.

In a statement on Monday, September 9, Governor Wamatangi extended support for the people of Juja and sent condolences to the victim's family.

He criticized the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) for not acting quickly enough against the hyena threat.

“This deadly threat has tragically claimed lives, with the most recent attack on a five-year-old boy in Nyacaba, Witeithie Ward, serving as a grim reminder of how dangerous these wild animals have become. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the boy's family,” Governor Wamatangi remarked.

“Enough is enough! We can no longer tolerate this abdication of responsibility by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS). They must be held accountable,”

Despite numerous appeals from the local community and the County Government of Kiambu, KWS has been accused of failing to take consistent and effective measures to address the menace.

The Governor highlighted the proactive efforts of the County Government, including working with residents to seal off disused quarries that have become breeding grounds for the hyenas.

“Our efforts to close these quarries, which the hyenas use as hideouts, have not been met with the necessary support from KWS. Despite our ongoing communication and proactive measures, our pleas seem to have fallen on deaf ears,” Wamatangi said.

The governor called for immediate and effective intervention to ensure the safety and security of the residents of Juja.

The hyena attacks in the area have become an increasing menace with reports of such incidents on the rise. 

On Wednesday, September 4, a four-year-old boy was mauled by a hyena at Flat Estate in Nyacaba area of Witeithie location in Juja.

Former CS Kuria, in a statement on Saturday, September 7, noted that this incident represents a new and disturbing trend.

"Historically, hyenas and humans in this area coexisted peacefully. However, Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has now identified a new, aggressive species of hyenas that pose a threat to humans," Kuria remarked.

He pointed out that these aggressive hyenas are primarily found around abandoned quarries and uncontrolled dump sites.