Residents of Kocholia in Teso North Sub-County have raised concerns over increasing incidents of wildlife invading farms and homesteads, destroying crops and killing livestock, and threatening their livelihoods.
The community says wild animals stray into residential areas at night in search of food after leaving their natural habitats, escalating human-wildlife conflicts in the region.
Last week, an unidentified wild animal broke into the farm of resident Sikosoa Kotere, entering a sheep pen and killing four sheep before escaping.
Kotere said the attack occurred around 2 a.m. and added that had the family not investigated the disturbance, all six sheep in the pen could have been killed.
Area Chief Eliud Munyala Itubo confirmed the incident, noting that the matter had been reported to the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS).
“KWS advised the farmer to safely dispose of the carcasses while they pursue measures to control the animal,” said Chief Itubo.
The chief added that the animal, suspected to be a hyena, may have moved into neighbouring Nambale Sub-County, where there are large sugarcane plantations.
“Most likely, it crosses over at night when hungry to look for food,” he explained.
He urged residents to remain vigilant, escort children to school in the mornings, move in groups, and report any sightings immediately, noting that authorities are on high alert.
Kotere expressed fear that the animal could return, emphasising that many residents in the area rear sheep and other livestock.
He also recounted that in April last year, monkeys invaded the area and destroyed maize plantations belonging to him and his neighbours, highlighting that the community frequently faces threats from wild dogs that pose dangers to both people and animals.
The residents called for increased monitoring and timely intervention by wildlife authorities to prevent further losses and ensure the safety of both humans and animals in the area.
By Moses Wekesa
