By Mandere Onyinkwa
Grief, tension and uncertainty continue to grip parts of Kajiado County as authorities grapple with the aftermath of deadly human–wildlife encounters and their ripple effects on community services.
At the heart of the unfolding situation is Mosiro, where the County Government of Kajiado formally asked the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) to vacate land within Mosiro Health Centre grounds to pave the way for critical hospital expansion.
In a letter dated December 1, 2025, the hospital committee said the move was necessary to allow construction of new facilities, including theatre wards and a mortuary.
“We humbly request you to plan to relocate from hospital ground to allow the hospital run their activities softly,” the hospital chairman wrote, noting that the planned developments require “enough piece of land” for essential health infrastructure
The relocation request came against the backdrop of heightened emotions in the area following fatal elephant attacks that claimed lives days later.
On December 23, 42-year-old Nkanyiok Pusaren was killed by an elephant while herding goats in Ilasarri village, Kilonito Location.
According to KWS, the animal inflicted fatal head and body injuries, killing him instantly.
“KWS profoundly regrets the loss of every life and stands in solidarity with the bereaved during this difficult time,” the agency said, adding that preliminary findings showed the elephant had injuries “consistent with spears and arrows,” suggesting prior confrontation.
A second incident involving the killing of a woman and injury of a boda boda rider sparked protests in Mosiro on December 24, leading to the destruction of a temporary facility near the dispensary.
KWS clarified that the structure was not a permanent outpost and had already been vacated following the county’s notice.
“The facility had already been vacated following a formal notice to vacate issued by the County Government of Kajiado,” KWS said, urging calm and warning against politicising tragedy.
As authorities investigate the incidents, both county officials and KWS say cooperation, improved response systems and long-term planning are critical to protecting lives while allowing communities and wildlife to coexist.
Kajiado remains one of Kenya’s human–wildlife conflict hotspots due to expanding settlements near wildlife corridors.