Families affected by recent elephant attacks in Buliisa district are calling on the government for support. They are seeking compensation for their losses and medical treatment for survivors.
The attacks have escalated in sub-counties neighboring the Bugungu Wildlife Reserve. Elephants roaming these areas have wreaked havoc on locals’ lives, destroying homes and crops, leaving behind a trail of devastation.
One resident, Edson Tumwesigye from Kichooke in Bugana parish, recounted the tragic loss of his granddaughter’s mother, Bridget Katulinde. She was killed by six elephants while working in a garden located 4 kilometers from the wildlife reserve.
In response to the crisis, Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja has instructed the Uganda Wildlife Authority to install an electric fence along the affected areas within three months.
Fred Kiiza, the chief warden of the Uganda Wildlife Authority, has announced plans to compensate affected families with 20 million shillings each. Additionally, efforts are underway to increase the number of scouts deployed in areas prone to elephant encounters.
Prime Minister Nabbanja has provided immediate assistance by allocating 1 million shillings for the care of a two-year old girl whose mother fell victim to the stray elephants.
