Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has successfully captured 60 hyenas in Juja as part of "Operation Ondoa Fisi," an effort launched in response to recent deadly hyena attacks.
The operation, aimed at restoring safety in the Juja sub-county, has also involved killing some hyenas.
The operation began on September 8, 2024, after the tragic deaths of two locals, including five-year-old Njoroge Gitau, who a hyena fatally attacked on September 4.
Another victim, a 52-year-old woman, was also mauled to death while walking home from the market, further intensifying the urgency for action.
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Led by Joseph Dadacha, Senior Assistant Director of the Central Rift Conservation Area, the operation has seen KWS officers from Nairobi, Laikipia, and Nakuru join forces to relocate the hyenas terrorizing residents.
In addition to the capture efforts, KWS has increased patrols in high-risk areas, including Nyacaba, Athi, Juja Farm, Gwa Kigwe, and Muthara Village, to prevent more attacks.
These tragic incidents had sparked protests from residents, who had demanded immediate intervention. In response to the escalating human-wildlife conflict, President William Ruto introduced a Ksh. 960 million compensation program for families affected by wildlife attacks.
This compensation scheme aims to support victims financially and reduce the ongoing threat posed by wildlife in the region.
