By Dorothy Musyoka
In response to a surge in hyena attacks across Kenya, particularly in the Juja area, the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has initiated a comprehensive awareness campaign to educate the public on how to prevent and handle encounters with hyenas.
The campaign is a proactive step by KWS to address the escalating human-wildlife conflict and protect communities from potential harm.
The campaign involves close collaboration with students, teachers, administrators, and the wider Juja community, which has been notably affected by recent hyena attacks.
KWS is focusing on conservation education and disseminating essential safety tips to equip residents with the knowledge and skills needed to avoid dangerous encounters and reduce the risk of fatalities.
The awareness sessions cover crucial information, such as understanding hyena behavior, recognizing warning signs, and adopting safe practices when living near wildlife habitats.
Community members are being taught how to secure their homes and livestock, travel safely at night, and respond effectively in the event of an encounter with these misunderstood scavengers.
“KWS has been working closely with students, teachers, administrators, and the broader Juja community, which has been heavily affected by human-hyena conflict. The goal is to provide people with the essential knowledge and skills to prevent hyena attacks and reduce the risk of fatalities,” noted KWS.
The initiative also aims to dispel myths and misconceptions about hyenas, promoting a better understanding of their role in the ecosystem as scavengers that help keep the environment clean by feeding on carrion.
“Through conservation education and the dissemination of safety tips, KWS hopes to foster a better understanding of these misunderstood scavengers and encourage peaceful coexistence between humans and wildlife in affected regions,” KWS added.
As the campaign continues, KWS is calling on all stakeholders, including local leaders, community members, and conservation groups, to support and participate in these efforts to achieve lasting harmony between humans and wildlife in Kenya.
By encouraging a balanced perspective on wildlife, KWS hopes to reduce fear and promote coexistence strategies that benefit both humans and animals.