This archive report was first published on 16 December 2019.
On December 16, 2019, the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) released a statement dismissing rumors of wild animals straying into residential areas neighboring the Nairobi National Park.
Despite the KWS's efforts to reassure the public, recent reports of wild animals in residential areas have caused panic among residents. In Ongata Rongai, residents were quoted in media reports saying they had restricted their movements between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m. to avoid possible encounters with the animals.
The KWS has taken the right step by enhancing surveillance and patrols in the area, but a lasting solution is needed to address the problem. This includes reinforcing the electric fence around the park and preventing encroachment on the conservation area.
