NELSON K
Residents of Nyabushenyi Parish in Nyarushanje Sub County, particularly those in Rwakaraaba and Kabumba cells, are living in fear following attacks on their domestic animals by an unknown wild animal. The predator, suspected to resemble an old leopard, has reportedly killed several goats and sheep, leaving the community in distress.
According to Ambrose Tumukunde, a resident of Rwakaraaba cell, the animal has been sighted in the villages of Rwebihondo, Mutojo, and Omukyambu Kangabo, where it has allegedly killed six goats and four sheep. Tumukunde expressed concerns that the animal could pose a danger to human lives as well. He noted that while some residents have attempted to hunt it using dogs, the creature has proven to be too strong and aggressive, even attempting to attack them in return. He called on authorities to take immediate action.
Allen Twebaze, a resident of Kabumba cell, narrated that on March 2nd, the animal attacked her sheepfold, killing one sheep and injuring another, which later died. Initially, she suspected stray dogs until her husband witnessed the wild animal firsthand at night. Upon seeing it, he alerted neighbors, and together they tried to chase it away, but it turned on them and their dogs. In total, she reported losing six sheep. Twebaze informed the LC1 Chairperson, the GISO, the OC, and the area councilor about the incidents.
Kabungo LC1 Chairperson, Mutambuka Vincent, confirmed that the animal had earlier attacked livestock belonging to Twebaze Caleb. In response, a group of about 25 residents armed with spears, pangas, sticks, and stones, along with several dogs, attempted to hunt it down. However, upon seeing the animal, the dogs fled, leaving the group vulnerable. The predator managed to escape across a river. Vincent urged the authorities to provide urgent assistance in handling the situation.
Nyabushenyi Sub County Councillor, Turyahika Mollion, also confirmed the reports and assured residents that he would escalate the matter to the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). He believes the animal may have strayed from a national park and pledged to prioritize efforts to address the issue.
Twinomugisha Deus, the Assistant Warden for Community Conservation in Southern Queen Elizabeth National Park, expressed sympathy for the affected residents. He urged them to report any sightings of the animal immediately so that wildlife officials can assess the situation and take appropriate action. Deus also cautioned against killing the animal, emphasizing that wildlife is protected under national laws. He assured residents that he would respond promptly if notified of the animal’s return.
