Nwoya Farmer Trampled by Elephant Near Murchison Falls National Park
Nwoya District, Uganda – Tragedy struck on the outskirts of Murchison Falls National Park when a farmer was fatally trampled by a stray elephant. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Sunday morning, has reignited debates over human-wildlife conflict in areas surrounding protected parks.
The victim, identified as 45-year-old Okello Samuel, was tending to his cassava farm in Koch Goma Sub-County when he encountered the elephant. Eyewitnesses reported that the elephant had strayed from the national park into nearby villages, causing panic among residents.
“Okello had gone to his farm early to inspect the damage from previous wildlife invasions,” said a local resident, Akot Beatrice. “We were shocked to find out that he didn’t make it back home. His body was discovered later by other farmers.”
The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) confirmed the incident and expressed condolences to the bereaved family. UWA spokesperson Bashir Hangi stated that rangers have been deployed to track and drive the animal back into the park. “We are working closely with the community to ensure safety and to minimize such tragic encounters,” he said.
Human-wildlife conflict has been a persistent issue in areas bordering national parks in Uganda. Farmers in Nwoya have long complained about wild animals, particularly elephants, destroying crops and posing a threat to their lives. The government has previously implemented measures such as constructing trenches and planting chili fences to deter animals, but such efforts have often proven insufficient.
Local leaders are calling for urgent intervention to prevent further loss of life and livelihoods. “We demand compensation for Okello’s family and stronger measures to protect residents from these dangers,” said Nwoya District Chairperson, Patrick Ojara.
Okello leaves behind a wife and four children, who now face an uncertain future. Residents are appealing for additional patrols and the deployment of advanced deterrent technologies to safeguard communities near wildlife habitats.
This incident is a stark reminder of the delicate balance between wildlife conservation and the safety of communities living on the frontlines of Uganda's rich biodiversity.
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