An unfortunate confrontation between armed herders and Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) officers resulted in one fatality and heightened tensions in Tsavo East National Park.
The incident occurred on Sunday, 29th December 2024, at Yakalicha, about 16 kilometers inside the protected park.
According to a statement released by KWS, the officers encountered over 30 armed herders who had illegally entered the park during a routine security patrol.
A violent altercation ensued when the herders attacked the officers with poisoned arrows.
Tragically, one herder was fatally injured, while one officer narrowly escaped harm.
“KWS extends its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased herder and regrets the incident, especially given the historically harmonious relationship between the Service and the Kone community,” the statement reads.
The incident comes against a backdrop of increasing hostility along the northeastern boundary of Tsavo East National Park.
KWS attributes this to alleged incitement by Hon. Guyo Ali Wario, Member of Parliament for Garsen Constituency, who has reportedly encouraged illegal invasion and settlement within the park.
“This incitement has led to illegal construction of makeshift settlements, armed herding of livestock in protected areas, poaching, wildlife deaths, and severe environmental degradation,” KWS stated.
The tensions have escalated over the past year, culminating in incidents such as the burning of a police station and the displacement of a KWS security base at Kalalani in South Kitui National Reserve.
Despite these challenges, KWS reiterated its commitment to fostering peaceful coexistence with local communities.
Efforts have included engaging community leaders and implementing Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives.
These include drilling a borehole to supply water and constructing classrooms for the park-adjacent Kone community.
“Engaging elders, National Government Administration Officers (NGAO), and local leaders has yielded positive outcomes, including improved relations and calmness,” KWS noted.
KWS emphasized that illegal entry into national parks is a criminal offense, and condemned the actions of armed incursions into wildlife-protected areas as particularly dangerous.
“The Service strongly condemns the continued incitement by Hon. Guyo Ali Wario, which has escalated tensions and contributed to the unfortunate incident at Yakalicha,” KWS stated.
It urged all communities to respect protected areas and work collaboratively to ensure the safety of wildlife, park personnel, and residents.
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