The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) on Monday, July 1, 2024, drove out 50 elephants from Kamunyu village to prevent human-wildlife conflict.
In a statement, the wildlife body noted that its airwing managed to safely guide the jumbos from human settlements to nearby Embu and Mwea National Reserves.
“In the heart of Masinga, a journey towards coexistence and harmony continues. Our dedicated teams from Embu and Mwea National Reserve with support from the KWS Airwing embarked on a mission to safeguard both wildlife and communities,” KWS said.
Equipped with a chopper in the air and another team of wildlife officers coordinating the movements from the ground, KWS drove out the majestic mammals.
“With a keen eye from above, nearly 50 majestic elephants were guided away from Kamunyu village. Despite the challenge posed by the high water levels, our determined teams ensured these gentle giants stayed clear of human settlements,” KWS added.
80 elephants in Kilifi
This comes just weeks after KWS drove at least 80 elephants from Vitengeni in Kilifi County into the Tsavo East National Park following widespread complaints of the jumbos destroying crops.
The jumbos have been a nuisance in Kilifi County where large swathes of farms have been destroyed.
Similarly, some villagers lost their lives in the conflict between them and the marauding elephants.
“This initiative exemplifies KWS’s commitment to fostering harmonious coexistence between humans and wildlife, ensuring the preservation of these iconic creatures for posterity,” KWS said.
KWS embarked on the deployment of choppers to flush out elephants from human settlements after widespread injuries were reported during the use of special vehicles and wildlife officers.
During such drives, the officers require residents to stay indoors as the jumbos may feel threatened and attack indiscriminately.
The elephants could veer off the targeted paths and come into contact with humans, resulting in injuries and potential loss of lives.
At one point, a similar exercise was halted after the aerial team spotted charcoal burners along the path where the jumbos were to go through.
“Through continuous community engagement and awareness campaigns, we strive to foster a peaceful coexistence. Together, we safeguard the balance of nature, preserving the serenity of our land and the safety of our people,” the wildlife body said.
They urged members of the public to report any wildlife incidences through a 24-hour toll-free line 0800 597 000 or WhatsApp 0726 610509 for immediate intervention.
