Local sources from Kenya: Nation, The Star Kenya.
UK coverage: Sky News.
A man has been killed and two others injured in a hyena attack near the Multimedia University of Kenya on the outskirts of Nairobi. The university is located near Nairobi National Park, which is home to various carnivorous animals including hyenas. The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has confirmed the death and is examining the carcass of a hyena that was put down following the attack to determine if it had rabies or other diseases. Hyena attacks have become more frequent in the area, leading the KWS to release guidelines on how to react when confronted by these animals.
According to reports from the Nation, the incident occurred on Monday evening when a 21-year-old student, Kelvin Mwenda, was attacked by a hyena along Masai Lodge Road in Olekasasi area. Stephen Romo, a resident of Olmeut village, rushed to rescue Mwenda but sustained severe injuries in the process. Both victims were taken to Wama Nursing Home Hospital for treatment by the KWS van. Unfortunately, Mwenda lost a thumb and his right eye as a result of the attack.
This attack comes just a month after a pack of hyenas killed a 10-year-old boy in Gwa Kigwi village in Juja, Kiambu County, as reported by the Nation. In response to the increasing number of hyena attacks, the KWS launched Operation Ondoa Fisi and issued guidelines on how to deal with potential encounters. The KWS advises against running or pretending to be asleep when faced with a hyena. Instead, individuals should remain calm, show no fear, and talk to the hyena. Making loud, aggressive noises can also help deter the animal.
The Star Kenya confirms that the KWS has verified the attack and stated that both victims were seriously injured. The incident took place in the Ole Kasasi area of Rongai, Kajiado County, on Monday evening. The injured individuals were promptly taken to Wema Hospital in Rongai and later transferred to The Kenyatta National Hospital for specialized treatment. Partial remains of a human were found at the scene, which have been confirmed by the family members. The KWS has euthanized one hyena and is investigating the carcass for any signs of rabies or other zoonotic diseases.
In response to the attack, students from Multimedia University held peaceful demonstrations outside the KWS Workshop Gate, demanding answers and action. KWS senior officers met with the university’s Vice-Chancellor to address the concerns and outline measures taken to control the hyena situation. The KWS Problem Animal Management Unit (PAMU) has initiated an operation to identify other hyena dens in the area and ensure the safety of the community.
Residents in the area are urged to remain vigilant as the southern part of Nairobi National Park is not fenced and serves as a wildlife migratory corridor. The KWS encourages all Kenyans to report any wildlife emergency cases promptly to the nearest KWS office or contact their 24/7 hotline for immediate intervention.
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