By Stephen Jamugisha
Kiryandongo, Uganda: Farmers living near the parkline in Kyankende Sub-County have raised the alarm over escalating wildlife destruction, after elephants reportedly ravaged gardens in Buyama Village on Friday morning.
The latest incident, which occurred between 5:00am and 8:00am, left several gardens—primarily banana and sweet potato plantations—flattened. The most affected was a garden owned by local resident Kisembo Godfrey.
Mr. Ogwang David, the LC1 Chairperson of the area, locally known as Bagaya, said the community has persistently complained to the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) about elephant incursions, but no lasting solution has been provided.
“We have raised these concerns for years. UWA once held a sensitisation meeting in Diika Parish, which we thought would lead to better mitigation efforts, but nothing has changed,” Ogwang said.
Obiri Godfrey, an aspiring district councillor for Kyankende Sub County on the NUP ticket, echoed the frustrations, citing failed compensation attempts.
“Seventy million shillings was reportedly allocated in previous years to compensate affected households, but only a few benefitted. Many genuine victims received nothing,” Obiri said, calling for accountability and fresh intervention.
He vowed to advocate for lasting solutions and equitable compensation if elected, urging UWA and other relevant authorities to act swiftly before the situation triggers famine.
Residents now want the government to step in and prevent future wildlife invasions, which they say have become routine while leaders remain indifferent.
“This is not the first time this has happened. But our leaders continue to pay deaf ears. We are on the verge of hunger,” one resident lamented.
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