Students at Multimedia University (MMU) took to the streets on Tuesday in protest, demanding protection from the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) after two students fell victim to a hyena attack. The incident, which occurred along Maasai Lodge road in Ongata Rongai ward, Kajiado County, left Kelvin Mwenda and Stephen Romo nursing injuries at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH).
Quick Summary:
- Protests for Protection: MMU students stage protests demanding safety measures from KWS following a hyena attack on two students.
- Attack Details: Kelvin Mwenda and Stephen Romo were attacked by a hyena while walking along Maasai Lodge road in Ongata Rongai ward, sustaining injuries to their hands and legs.
- Response and Advice from KWS: KWS advises residents to remain calm and avoid running when encountering hyenas, urging them to make loud noises to scare off the animals.
- Previous Incidents: The attack follows a similar incident three weeks prior, where a hyena killed a student in Juja.
Students’ Demand for Safety
The protests by MMU students highlight growing concerns over safety and wildlife encounters in the area. Following the harrowing attack on Kelvin Mwenda and Stephen Romo, students are demanding immediate action from KWS to ensure their safety while commuting to and from the university premises. The blocking of Magadi Road near Ongata Rongai underscores the urgency of the situation and the need for swift intervention.
Incident Details and Victims’ Condition
Kelvin Mwenda and Stephen Romo were ambushed by a hyena while traversing Maasai Lodge road, resulting in severe injuries to their hands and legs. The victims were initially admitted to Wama Hospital before being transferred to KNH for further medical attention. The nature of the attack has sparked outrage among students and the local community, prompting calls for increased vigilance and preventative measures.
Response from KWS
In response to the incident, KWS has issued advisories urging residents to remain calm and avoid fleeing when confronted by hyenas. Instead, individuals are encouraged to make loud noises and maintain eye contact with the animals to deter them. KWS emphasizes the importance of not playing dead or engaging in sudden movements, as this may provoke the hyenas further.
Previous Incidents and Safety Concerns
The recent attack at MMU echoes a similar tragedy that occurred three weeks prior, where a student lost their life to a hyena in Juja. These incidents underscore the pressing need for enhanced safety measures and awareness campaigns to mitigate the risks posed by wildlife encounters. As students continue to demand action from authorities, addressing safety concerns remains paramount to safeguarding lives and promoting a secure learning environment.
Final Thoughts
The hyena attack on MMU students has reignited conversations about wildlife-human conflict and the need for proactive measures to ensure the safety of individuals in affected areas. As stakeholders collaborate to address these challenges, prioritizing education and awareness on wildlife behavior and safety protocols will be crucial in preventing future incidents and fostering coexistence between humans and wildlife.
