Kenya Wild Service warn illegal Entry of Tsavo East National Park

   By Grace Waithaka The KWS has expressed deep concern over an incident involving illegal entry into Tsavo East National Park on Sunday, December 29, 2024. During a routine patrol at Yakalicha, 16 kilometers inside the park, KWS officers encountered over 30 armed herders who had trespassed into the protected area.A confrontation ensued when the herders attacked the officers with poisoned arrows, advancing aggressively. Tragically, one herder lost their life during the incident, and one officer narrowly escaped injury after being grazed by a poisoned arrow stuck to their firearm. KWS extended its condolences to the family of the deceased herder and emphasized the importance of peaceful coexistence between the Service and local communities.The matter has been reported to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) offices in Mutomo, Kitui County, and Garsen, Tana River County, where investigations are underway to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident. KWS is fully cooperating with the DCI in the investigation.Over the past year, KWS has faced increasing hostility along the northeastern boundary of Tsavo East National Park. This tension has been fueled by incitement from Hon. Guyo Ali Wario, the Member of Parliament for Garsen Constituency, who has allegedly encouraged illegal invasions into the park with promises of land acquisition. This has led to the illegal construction of makeshift settlements, armed herding of thousands of livestock in protected areas, and significant threats to wildlife, KWS personnel, and the environment.In November 2024, the escalating tension culminated in the burning of a police station and the displacement of a KWS security base at Kalalani inside South Kitui National Reserve. This act endangered public safety, property security, and wildlife protection.Despite these challenges, KWS remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering peaceful coexistence. The Service has engaged local communities through meetings with elders, government administrators, and local leaders, which have yielded improved relations. In response to community needs, KWS has also undertaken Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, such as drilling boreholes for water and constructing classrooms to enhance educational opportunities for the park-adjacent Kone community.KWS reiterated that illegal entry into national parks is a criminal offense under the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act, Cap 376. Armed incursions into protected areas pose severe risks to law enforcement officers, wildlife, and the public.The Service strongly condemned the actions of Hon. Guyo Ali Wario, whose incitement has heightened tensions and contributed to this tragic event. KWS urged all communities to respect protected areas and work collaboratively to ensure the safety of wildlife, rangers, and local residents.KWS reaffirmed its dedication to conserving Kenya’s wildlife heritage while promoting peaceful coexistence with neighboring communities.  Read More