KWS speaks after hyena attacks 5-year-old in Juja

The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has announced plans to intensify its efforts to mitigate human-wildlife conflict in Juja after a tragic incident where a five-year-old child was killed by a hyena.

The child’s death led to demonstrations that brought the Thika Superhighway to a standstill as residents protested the growing threat of hyena attacks in the area.

KWS response

In a statement, KWS expressed deep regret over the loss of life and extended their condolences to the grieving family.

“KWS deeply regrets the tragic loss of a 5-year-old child following a hyena attack on the evening of 4th September in Juja, Kiambu County. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family during this difficult time,” read the statement.

KWS acknowledged the challenges of wildlife management, noting that many animals, including hyenas, live outside protected areas, which complicates efforts to prevent conflicts.

In response to the incident, KWS revealed that it had launched Operation Ondoa Fisi-2 in August 2024, an initiative aimed at addressing the rising hyena threat in Juja. Since then, they have successfully relocated 38 hyenas and sealed off 12 quarries that had become their hideouts.

“To address the hyena threat, KWS launched Operation Ondoa Fisi-2 on 8th August 2024, following a similar incident in Juja. This operation builds on previous efforts from November 2023 to combat the increasing hyena attacks. Since its start, KWS has relocated 38 hyenas and sealed 12 quarries used as their hideouts,” KWS confirmed.

The service says it has deployed a specialized team to manage the situation and emphasized that the operation is being conducted in two phases: hyena management and community engagement.

KWS added that it is working to educate residents on safety measures, urging them to limit nighttime movement and properly dispose of waste to avoid attracting the animals.

KWS also stressed the need to address the issue of abandoned quarries in Juja, which have become hideouts for wild animals. The organization reiterated its commitment to working with relevant authorities to rehabilitate these areas.

“The Service urges the public to limit movement at night, dispose of waste properly to avoid attracting hyenas, and to refrain from tampering with traps set for the animals. KWS is committed to collaborating with authorities to address and rehabilitate abandoned quarries in Juja to ensure residents’ safety,” the statement continued.

KWS hotline

KWS concluded by reminding the public to report sightings of problematic wildlife through their hotline numbers.

“We remain steadfast in ensuring the safety and well-being of Kenyans and urge anyone who spots problematic wildlife to report immediately through the KWS 24/7 hotline at 0800 597 000 or WhatsApp number +254 726610509.”