Concerns about human-wildlife conflict in Meru have been raised. Dr. John Chumo, Secretary in the State Department of Wildlife, stated that people have encroached on the migration paths of elephants. Locals have reported that these animals have damaged their crops and injured residents.
Speaking in Choroiboro, Meru County, during the celebration of World Elephant Day on Monday, Chumo noted that climate change has prompted elephants to adopt new migratory routes in search of water and food. He added that the government is actively seeking solutions to mitigate human-wildlife conflict.
“The elephants’ migratory routes have been interfered with and are either full of housing units or other areas have been used for agricultural activities,” Chumo said.
He regretted deaths and destruction of food and housing caused by the conflict.