SIMPSON M
Residents of Rutenga and Rugyeyo sub-counties in Kanungu District are living in fear following an alarming rise in animal deaths, suspected to be caused by stray dogs or an unidentified wild animal.
The most affected areas include Kashojwa Parish, Kabahesi, Kabatwa, Muramba, and Rutooma, where at least 160 animals have reportedly been killed. According to Joseph Akankwasa, the councilor representing Rugyeyo Sub-county, numerous cases of dead animals, including pigs, goats, and sheep, have been reported. However, residents remain uncertain about the exact cause of these deaths.
Akankwasa noted that several stray dogs have been killed by locals who suspect they are responsible for the attacks. However, rumors persist that an unknown wild animal may be to blame. He urged residents to remain vigilant and work together to determine what is killing their animals. He also called on district leaders and veterinary officials to investigate and take immediate action.
Buroosa Ainembabazi, the councilor representing Rutenga Sub-county, expressed concern over the continued loss of livestock. He stated that the unidentified wild animal began its attacks in Rugyeyo Sub-county but has now spread to Muramba Parish in Rutenga Sub-county.
Buroosa called for heightened vigilance among residents, urging them to raise an alarm if they spot the animal so that it can be tracked and killed to ensure the safety of the community. He also advised residents to vaccinate and confine their dogs to prevent them from being mistakenly killed during the panic.
Mugabe Dismus, a resident of Kasiizi, Muramba Parish, shared his ordeal, revealing that four of his goats and two pigs were killed by the wild animal. He reported that in Kasiizi Cell alone, 18 goats and nine pigs have been killed, causing widespread panic among residents. Fear of being attacked has even discouraged people from moving at night.
Residents describe the animal as having black-and-white coloring. Despite attempts to hunt it down, their efforts have so far been unsuccessful.
Attempts to contact the Kanungu District Veterinary Officer for comment were unsuccessful, as their known phone numbers were unreachable.
