Narok East Member of Parliament Aramat Kiloku has called on the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) to urgently address an elephant invasion in the constituency that has left one resident dead, another seriously injured, and caused extensive property damage valued at millions of shillings. The legislator emphasized the need for permanent elephant relocation to protected areas, arguing that residents should not bear the human and economic costs of escalating human-wildlife conflict. Kiloku also demanded clarity on compensation for families affected by crop destruction, water tank damage, and home losses, stating that the situation had caused
The MP highlighted that repeated elephant incursions into farmlands and settlements have heightened fears for community safety and livelihoods, particularly in an area where farming is the primary income source. He noted that years of crop destruction have led to economic losses, emotional distress, and reliance on relief food for some households.
Kiloku questioned why authorities have failed to prevent elephants from entering residential and agricultural zones despite recurring incidents, urging KWS and government agencies to implement effective measures to mitigate further harm. He also called for a transparent and timely compensation mechanism to support affected families, warning that growing frustration among residents could escalate tensions.
In addition to the elephant crisis, Kiloku raised concerns over reported livestock losses during a multi-agency security operation in Samburu East. He criticized the handling of the operation, which targeted banditry and livestock theft, and called for investigations into the killing of cattle and goats.
Samburu Senator Lelegwe Ltumbesi reported that 415 goats and 102 cattle were killed in Waso Ward over three days, while Samburu East MP Jackson Lekumontare cited higher figures of over 700 goats and 500 cattle. These numbers, however, remain unverified. Local leaders and MPs have demanded independent investigations and government support for affected families.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen acknowledged concerns over livestock losses during the operation, directing security agencies to minimize civilian casualties and property destruction. He emphasized that operations would focus on targeting armed criminals and those involved in attacks on security personnel, civilians, and livestock.
The MP's remarks have reignited debates over balancing security efforts with the protection of civilian livelihoods, while underscoring the persistent challenges of human-wildlife conflict in Kenya. The situation highlights the urgent need for coordinated solutions to safeguard both communities and wildlife.
Meanwhile, 70,000 families in Kieni are reportedly in dire need of relief food, further straining local resources. The crisis has also impacted Malindi's tourism sector due to international flight cancellations, compounding regional economic pressures.