EMBAKASI, Kenya – In Embakasi, Isinya Sub County, Kajiado, a farmer has experienced significant losses after two lionesses killed three of her sheep and critically injured others. The incident occurred at the homestead of Jackline Kishanto, a local livestock keeper.
According to Kenya News Agency, Jackline Kishanto reported that the lionesses had been seen roaming the area for several days before they attacked her sheep around 1:00 am. This incident adds to the distress she has already faced, as a recent drought had decimated a large part of her flock. Despite alerting the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) about the presence of the lionesses near her homestead, Kishanto claims no action was taken to remove the animals. KWS officers reportedly arrived only to document the aftermath.
As a widow who relies on livestock for her livelihood, Kishanto is now urging the KWS to compensate her for the loss. She recounted a similar incident in 2019, where lions killed 12 of her sheep, for which she has yet to receive compensation.
In addition to financial compensation, Kishanto has appealed to the KWS for assistance in enhancing the security of her homestead. She suggests installing solar lights as a deterrent, noting that fencing has been ineffective in keeping wildlife at bay.
Embakasi’s proximity to the Nairobi National Park has made human-wildlife conflict a common issue in the area, posing ongoing challenges to residents like Kishanto who depend on livestock farming.