Bondo MP Gideon Ochanda pushes for wildlife sanctuaries to end deadly human-animal conflicts

Bondo MP Gideon Ochanda has urged the government to invest in wildlife sanctuaries across the country as a long-term solution to the rising cases of human-wildlife conflict that continue to claim lives and destroy property.

According to Ochanda, recurring attacks by wild animals have exposed the need for the country to establish more protected habitats where wildlife can be conserved without posing a threat to surrounding communities.

The legislator noted that many Kenyans, particularly those living near forests, game reserves and wildlife migration corridors, continue to suffer heavy losses as elephants destroy crops, while predators such as lions and hyenas attack livestock and, in some cases, people.

He argued that instead of relying solely on compensation after attacks occur, the government should invest in creating and expanding wildlife sanctuaries to provide safe habitats for animals and reduce their movement into human settlements.

Ochanda said the increasing encroachment on wildlife habitats, coupled with population growth and environmental degradation, has intensified competition for land and water, forcing animals into villages and farms.

According to the MP, establishing well-managed sanctuaries would not only minimise conflicts but also promote biodiversity conservation, boost eco-tourism and create employment opportunities for local communities.

He challenged the national government and relevant conservation agencies to prioritise the protection of wildlife habitats while ensuring that communities living near conservation areas benefit from conservation initiatives.

The call comes amid growing concern over persistent cases of human-wildlife conflict reported in different parts of the country, with communities continuing to count losses from destroyed farms, killed livestock and damaged property.

Conservation experts have previously argued that preserving wildlife corridors, restoring degraded habitats and involving local communities in conservation efforts are among the most effective ways of promoting peaceful coexistence between people and wildlife.