Shimba Hills residents plead for help as human-wildlife conflict escalates

Communities in Shimba Hills, Matuga Constituency, Kwale County have appealed for urgent support as human-wildlife conflicts escalate, citing repeated incidents of crop destruction and fatalities caused by elephants, lions, buffaloes and snakes, which have left many families grieving and struggling to survive.

Speaking on Tuesday during an engagement with the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Tourism and Wildlife, affected families said current measures, including electric fences, are insufficient to curb wildlife incursions, leaving them vulnerable to further attacks.

A resident, Mzee Dan Kazungu, said his family has suffered for years, citing repeated losses of relatives and destruction of farm produce.

“I have lost several relatives, and buffaloes destroyed my farm produce. I have been waiting for compensation for over a decade without success,” he said.

Another resident, Mzee Juma Chai, described how he slept on his farm to protect it from animals.

“KWS erected an electric fence, which has brought some relief, but it is not enough. Warthogs and baboons still invade. We need more fencing,” he appealed.

Elizabeth Ngari recounted the tragic loss of her son.

“An elephant destroyed my half-acre farm and killed my son. I am now a widow with nothing to depend on. I have gone to all the relevant offices, but nothing is forthcoming. I live like a pauper,” she said bitterly.

Ms Mueni also raised concerns over crocodiles in a nearby dam.

“A few days ago, a young person’s hand was eaten by a crocodile,” she said.

Matuga MP Kassim Tandaza welcomed the Committee and highlighted the severity of the situation.

“Shimba Hills has been under constant attack by wildlife, especially elephants. Last year, a person was mauled by a lion, and snake bites are rampant. I thank the Committee for coming all the way to listen to the people,” he said.

Vice Chairperson of the Committee, Rashid Bedzimba, acknowledged the concerns and noted gaps in existing laws.

“Snake bites are indeed rampant and fatal, but as it stands, they do not fall under the compensation category. However, there is a bill that seeks to address this,” he assured.

Committee members pledged to pursue solutions, assuring residents that their concerns were being taken seriously and that the hearing would not be in vain. They acknowledged the long wait many victims had endured for compensation and committed to following up with the Cabinet Secretary and the Kenya Wildlife Service Director General to ensure that justice is served.

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“We have heard your sentiments, and we feel your pain. This meeting is not in vain,” Mwatate MP Peter Shake said.

Lamu East Ruweida Obo added, “I feel the pain of the marginalised, since I am also a victim. It is sad to hear that victims have waited for compensation for over a decade. We will follow up with the Cabinet Secretary and the KWS Director General to ensure justice.”

Matuga Constituency MP Kassim Tandaza urged residents to trust the parliamentary process.

“Parliament works through committees, and this is the best place to address your issues,” he said.

Voi Constituency MP Abdi Chome noted that the crisis extends beyond Shimba Hills.

“Human-wildlife conflict is a big concern, especially in areas neighbouring parks, including my constituency near Tsavo National Park,” he said.