MUGABE R
Cattle farmers in Rugoma and Rwankoma villages, Southern Ward of Kebisoni Town Council in Rukungiri District, have appealed to government and the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) to protect their lives and livestock from persistent wild animal attacks.
The fresh concern follows an incident on Tuesday, 26th August 2025, when a suspected wild cat attacked and killed a cow belonging to Mrs. Faith Nshemerirwe Ikuratiire of Rugoma Village. Residents said this was not the first time such attacks had occurred, citing earlier incidents in which the family of the late Bitanuzire Mwesigwa lost two cows, while sheep belonging to Mrs. Grace Kakwerere in Rwankoma Village were also killed.
Family members and residents who discovered the carcass of the cow expressed fear that leopards or other wild cats could be responsible, warning that more livestock could be lost if urgent action is not taken. They recalled that the area has previously experienced similar threats from wild animals, linking the problem to its proximity to Queen Elizabeth National Park.
While some residents insisted the death of the cow was a result of a wild animal attack, others attributed the incident to natural death and scavenging by dogs, pointing to the calm behavior of the other cattle in the herd.
Rukungiri District Police Commander, SSP Apollo Kyangungu, confirmed that authorities are already working with UWA and veterinary experts to investigate the incident. He said the agencies are determined to identify the culprit animal and, if necessary, return it to the park.
The farmers are now urging government and wildlife authorities to strengthen vigilance in the area and provide long-term solutions to prevent further losses.
