Machakos County: A 14-year-old girl lost her life over the Easter weekend after being attacked by a lioness near Nairobi National Park, in what authorities describe as a tragic human-wildlife conflict incident.
According to the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), the girl was attacked on a ranch located along the southern border of the park in Machakos County. The lioness reportedly mauled the teenager while she was within the vicinity of the ranch.
In a separate but equally tragic incident, a 54-year-old man was killed by an elephant in Nyeri County. Reports indicate that the man died on the spot following the surprise attack, adding to the growing list of fatalities linked to wildlife encounters in Kenya.
“We deeply regret these losses and extend our sincere condolences to the affected families,” said a spokesperson from KWS. The agency confirmed that rapid response teams have been deployed to both sites to prevent further escalation and ensure public safety.
Communities living near protected areas continue to face significant risks due to frequent wildlife incursions. Conservationists and local leaders are urging the government to implement stronger mitigation strategies including improved fencing, early warning systems, and education campaigns on coexistence with wildlife.
KWS has reaffirmed its commitment to working hand-in-hand with local communities to improve safety measures. A compensation scheme is also available for families affected by human-wildlife conflict, though many believe more proactive solutions are urgently needed.
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