KWS intensifies mitigation measures after woman killed by hyenas

On December 2, 2023, the hyenas killed a resident of Witethie in Juja, Kiambu County. [File, Standard]

The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has implemented measures to aid conflict mitigation between humans and hyenas in Juja, Kiambu County.

KWS, on Wednesday, January 3, said it has deployed a special unit in the area to help track and move hyenas to reduce the human-wildlife conflict.

The institution stepped in after an upsurge of hyena attacks in Kiambu County.

"Juja Sub-County in Kiambu County has witnessed a surge in human-hyena conflicts, resulting in the tragic loss of human life. KWS extends condolences to the affected families," it said.

KWS says it deployed the Problem Animal Management Unit (PAMU) which placed traps, initiating hyena captures and mobilized a veterinary unit to translocate and relocate the hyenas from the human-dominated area.

The operation has been intensified to include other affected areas.

So far, the Service has translocated 12 hyenas from Juja.

KWS and Kiambu County leaders have also resolved to embark on 24/7 area patrols with the help of community members.

It has recommended fencing operational quarries and abandoned or undeveloped private land and the enforcement of mining policies as some of the measures.

KWS weighed in on the matter after residents of Nyacaba and Witeithie villages in Juna blocked police officers from collecting the body of a middle-aged woman who was mauled to death by hyenas on December 2, 2023.