The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has issued three key directives after a five-year-old boy was tragically mauled by a hyena in Juja, Kiambu County, on September 4, 2024. In a statement released on Thursday, September 6, KWS called on residents to limit their movements at night, properly dispose of waste to prevent attracting hyenas, and avoid tampering with traps set up for the animals.
The agency expressed its condolences to the boy’s family, describing the incident as deeply regrettable. KWS noted that efforts are underway to manage human-wildlife conflicts in the area to prevent further tragedies. “Kenya Wildlife Service deeply regrets the tragic loss of a 5-year-old child due to a hyena attack. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family,” the statement read.
To combat the increasing threat of hyena attacks, KWS launched “Operation Ondoa Fisi-2” in August 2024. This initiative builds on a previous operation that began in November 2023, following an uptick in hyena-related incidents. According to KWS, since the start of the current operation, they have successfully captured and relocated 38 hyenas and sealed 12 quarries that the animals used as hideouts.
A specialized team has been deployed to Juja to handle the situation, with the operation progressing in two phases: managing the hyena population and educating the community on safety measures. KWS stressed the importance of public cooperation in following the issued directives, as this will help reduce the risk of future attacks.
In addition, KWS is working with local authorities to rehabilitate abandoned quarries in Juja, which serve as hiding places for the hyenas. The agency reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety of the local population through both proactive measures and public engagement.
