By KT Reporter
Residents and leaders of Lake Katwe Sub-county in Kasese District are raising concerns over an upsurge in attacks by stray wild animals, particularly lions and elephants, believed to be coming from Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Wilson Asiimwe, the Sub-County Chairperson, says the animals have become increasingly aggressive, causing injuries and destroying property. He attributes this behaviour partly to increased poaching, which has reduced the wildlife’s natural prey, forcing them to invade nearby communities in search of food.
Asiimwe is appealing to the government to intensify efforts against poaching and to deploy trackers to monitor animal movements in order to prevent further human-wildlife conflicts. He notes that in the past two months alone, the sub-county has recorded over ten cases of animal attacks, leaving two people injured and property destroyed.
Sam Baliku, a resident of Kikorongo, says that what was once a source of pride and tourism revenue has now turned into a source of fear. He narrates that recently, stray lions killed two goats belonging to a resident, Michael Katya, adding that such incidents have become more frequent.
Acleo Mumbahya, the LC I Chairperson of Rwentutu Village in Kabirizi Parish, says the situation has become so dire that parents are afraid to send their children to school unless accompanied by adults.
While officiating the opening of the Lake Katwe Sub-County administration block in Kikorongo on Thursday, the State Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Godfrey Kabyanga, assured residents that the government, through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), is working to address the problem.
Kabyanga revealed that UWA is in the process of installing an electric fence around the park to minimise animal incursions into human settlements. He, however, cautioned residents against poaching, warning that it provokes the animals and exacerbates the conflict.
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