EDITOR
Residents and local leaders in Kihihi Sub-county, Kanungu District, are calling on the government to address persistent human-wildlife conflicts and the pressing need for public education and health facilities in the area.
During a community outreach visit to villages including Kyenyabutongo, Kyakatarangyi, and Nyakahita, LC3 Chairperson Nelson Natukunda emphasized the hardships faced by local families, many of whom cannot afford private schools or health services. He appealed for the construction of government schools and hospitals to boost literacy, reduce disease, and uplift the socio-economic status of the community.
Despite ongoing efforts to fence Queen Elizabeth National Park, several communities near the Ntungwa River border with Rukungiri remain vulnerable. Residents report frequent encounters with wild animals, which not only destroy crops but also pose a deadly threat to human life.
The community was recently shaken by two fatal incidents. On February 19, 2025, Albert Nagaba, a 45-year-old farmer from Kamwenge, lost his life while guarding his tomato garden in Kyenyabutongo Cell. More recently, on May 16, a 15-year-old pupil, Clinton Birungi from Kyentija Primary School, was tragically killed by an elephant in Kameme Cell. Locals say the elephant had roamed freely in the area for nearly a week, causing widespread fear.
In response, Kanungu Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Gad Ahimbisibwe Rugaju confirmed that investigations into the recent attacks are underway. He expressed confidence that the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) is committed to finding long-term solutions.
According to Deusidadat Twinomujuni from UWA’s Ishasha Sector, fencing efforts are progressing. So far, 800 meters of fencing have been completed in Kanungu and 1.8 kilometers in Rukungiri. An additional 13 kilometers are planned for the 2025/2026 financial year.
On compensation, Twinomujuni reported that out of numerous claims submitted by affected residents, 10 have been paid, 25 approved, 29 rejected, and 34 are still being processed. He urged residents to ensure their applications include all necessary documentation to expedite the process.
Kanungu District Council members are also voicing concern. Councilor Elias Mbabazi (Kihihi Sub-county) and Prudence Kyarimpa (Nyanga Sub-county) highlighted the delays in compensation and the need for stronger measures to stop wildlife incursions.
District Speaker Hon. Frank Byaruhanga echoed these sentiments, calling for improved coordination between communities and UWA. He commended the collaboration between local security teams and residents but emphasized the importance of formal reporting channels for stray animals.
The appeal from Kihihi Sub-county paints a clear picture: residents want peace, protection, and progress. Their call is not only for physical safety from wildlife but also for access to the fundamental services of education and healthcare.
As the government and UWA continue working on fencing and compensation, the community remains hopeful that their voices will be heard—and that meaningful change is on the horizon.
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