KAJIADO, Kenya – A 35-year-old Early Childhood Development and Education (ECDE) teacher was killed after being trampled by an elephant in Lairupa Village, Elangata Wuas Location, Kajiado West, in yet another fatal case of human–wildlife conflict.
The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) confirmed the incident, saying the woman was attacked near her home and died on the spot from severe injuries.
In a statement, the wildlife agency said its officers, working alongside the National Police Service and local administrators, responded immediately after the incident was reported.
“The team confirmed the cause of death and formally recorded the matter at Elangata Wuas Police Station,” KWS said, adding that the body was later transferred to Kajiado Referral Hospital Mortuary.
KWS expressed deep sorrow over the death and conveyed condolences to the victim’s family, colleagues, learners and the wider Lodokilani community.
Following the attack, the agency launched intensive aerial and ground operations to trace the elephant responsible.
The animal was later found injured and displaying aggressive behaviour that posed an imminent threat to human life.
“KWS lawfully eliminated the elephant in accordance with the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act, 2013,” the agency said.
Additional measures have since been put in place to prevent further loss of life, including intensified patrols in the area and engagement with local leaders.
KWS officers also held consultations with area MP George Sunkuya and sensitised the bereaved family on the compensation process provided for under the law.
“We remain deeply concerned by this tragedy and reaffirm our commitment to strengthening human–wildlife conflict mitigation measures while protecting lives and promoting peaceful coexistence,” the statement said.
Human–wildlife conflict remains a persistent challenge in Kenya, particularly in communities bordering national parks, wildlife corridors and forested areas.
Rapid population growth, expanding settlements, farming and infrastructure development have increasingly encroached on wildlife habitats, forcing animals into closer contact with people.
Elephants are among the leading causes of fatal human–wildlife encounters in the country, alongside buffaloes, hippos and crocodiles.
Other conflicts include crop destruction by elephants, baboons and monkeys, as well as livestock attacks by lions, leopards, hyenas and cheetahs.
In arid and semi-arid regions, prolonged droughts often worsen tensions as humans, livestock and wildlife compete for scarce water and pasture.
To cushion affected families, the government operates a compensation scheme through KWS under the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act.
However, the programme has faced criticism over delays, limited funding and lengthy verification procedures.
