Narok East:Narok East Member of Parliament Aramat Kiloku has called for urgent intervention by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) to address an elephant invasion that has resulted in the death of a resident, injury to another, and significant property damage.
According to Kenya News Agency, Kiloku is advocating for the permanent relocation of elephants to designated game reserves and national parks. He argues that residents should not have to endure the economic and human costs associated with ongoing human-wildlife conflict.
Kiloku has demanded clarity on compensation and restitution for families affected by the destruction, emphasizing the psychological stress and economic toll on the community due to the loss of crops, water tanks, houses, and other property.
The MP highlighted the persistent nature of the problem, noting that farmers have suffered repeated crop damage and economic losses over several years, forcing some to rely on relief food. He questioned the authorities’ failure to prevent elephants from entering farms and residential areas and called for effective measures to avert further loss of life and property.
In addition to the wildlife issue, Kiloku expressed concerns over reported livestock deaths during security operations in Samburu. He called for investigations and compensation, noting the critical role of livestock in sustaining pastoralist families. Kiloku emphasized that large-scale livestock losses could drive households into poverty.
The MP’s remarks coincide with local leaders’ concerns over livestock deaths during a security operation in Samburu East aimed at addressing banditry and livestock theft. Conflicting reports on the number of livestock killed have emerged, with calls for independent investigations and government compensation for affected families.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has acknowledged the concerns, urging caution in security operations to minimize civilian and livestock casualties, while maintaining a firm stance against illegal firearms and attacks on security personnel, civilians, and livestock.
Kiloku’s concerns underscore the need to balance security measures with the protection of civilian lives and property, amidst the challenges posed by human-wildlife conflict.
