Why Lamu residents want major forests fenced

Lamu residents, whose homes and farmlands border major forests, have decried increased human-wildlife conflicts in the last few weeks.

The forests include Boni, Mambo Sasa and Kibokoni.

They say there is increased invasion and destruction of crops by wild animals, mostly buffaloes and hippos.

There have also been increased cases of hyenas invading homes and killing livestock in areas like Pandanguo, Mpeketoni, Shee Mgambo, Maisha Masha, Marafa, Juhudi and Widho villages.

Lamu County Farmers spokesperson Julius Mwangi urged the Kenya Wildlife Services (KWS) to intervene and contain the animals.

He said farmers have continued to suffer losses owing to massive crop destruction by the wildlife.

Mwangi demanded compensation for people who have lost their lives and those injured by wild animals.

“There are still many cases of death and injuries by wildlife whose compensation is still pending. Compensation for the thousands of acres of croplands destroyed by wildlife has also not happened,” he said.

Francis Waweru, who has lost his five acres of maize farm to monkey invasion, said his effort to have KWS tame the animals have been unsuccessful.

“I have tried to also have them compensate me to no avail. They keep saying assessment will be done yet the monkeys are not giving me peace,” he said.

The farmers have asked the KWS to fence off all major forests in the county to contain wild animals and stop them from wandering into residential areas and farms.

“They should erect electric fences, which will be useful in ensuring the wild animals stay within the confines of the forests,” Alice Nyambura from Pandanguo said.

Lamu county KWS assistant director Ahmed Ibrahim advised residents to steer clear of wildlife habitats to avoid clashing with animals.

 “Don’t set up residences or farms in or close to wildlife habitats. The same applies to wildlife feeding corridors. That can never end well,” he said.

Ibrahim revealed plans by the KWS in partnership with the Lamu government to fence off areas inhabited by hippos and other wildlife.