Kenyan and Tanzanian authorities have launched a joint investigation following a devastating wildlife poisoning incident near Amboseli National Park that has left at least six lions and 34 vultures dead.
The animals are believed to have died after feeding on a cow carcass that had been deliberately laced with poison in the Kitenden area along the Kenya–Tanzania border.
The incident occurred two days ago and has been described by conservationists as one of the most severe poisoning cases ever recorded within the Amboseli ecosystem.
Wildlife officials from both countries are working closely on the investigation, with reports indicating that two suspects from Tanzania are currently under close surveillance as inquiries intensify.
In response to the incident, the leadership of Kitenden Conservancy and the Orgulului/Olalarashi Group Ranch has imposed an immediate ban on livestock grazing by herders from Kitenden village in Tanzania.
The restriction will remain in force until the suspects are arrested and legal proceedings are concluded.
Orgulului/Olalarashi Group Ranch chairman Daniel ole Leturesh said the decision is intended to compel cooperation with investigators and ensure accountability.
He stressed that no livestock from Kitenden village would be allowed into the conservancy until those responsible are identified and handed over to authorities, noting that accountability is essential for harmony to be restored.
The move has received backing from leaders on both sides of the border.
Loomoni Olesiate Mole, an Olmolo Ward councillor in Tanzania’s Longido District, said the temporary ban is necessary to prevent inter-community conflict while safeguarding wildlife.
He added that the measure is aimed at ensuring justice and avoiding further tensions.
Tanzanian authorities have also pledged firm action. John Magembe, Chief Officer for Wildlife Management at the Enduimet Wildlife Management Area, assured that all those involved would be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
Kitenden Conservancy chairman Sayialel Ole Noombaek echoed the hardline stance, emphasizing that grazing will not resume until all suspects are arraigned in court. He insisted that wildlife protection remains non-negotiable.
Conservationists have expressed particular concern over the death of 34 vultures, warning that the loss is especially alarming given that the birds are among the most endangered species in the region.
Vultures play a vital role in disease control and maintaining ecological balance, and continued poisoning poses a serious threat to the health of the Amboseli ecosystem.
The Kitenden poisoning incident is now seen as a critical test of cross-border cooperation.
Conservation groups caution that failure to act decisively could undo decades of conservation gains across the greater Amboseli landscape.
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