A routine task turned into a harrowing experience for Agnes Azaru and her four-month-old baby as they encountered a mischievous chimpanzee along a footpath to a water source in the village of Maramu in Masindi district’s Bodongo sub-county,
As the sun dipped below the horizon, Azaru, unaware of the lurking danger, ventured into the forested and bushy surroundings to draw water. To her dismay, a chimpanzee seized her precious bundle from the safety of her back, leading to a desperate struggle between the mother and the ape.
Despite Azaru’s strenuous efforts, she managed to rescue her baby, but not without consequences. The infant sustained injuries, particularly in its private parts, casting a somber mood over the mother. The injured baby is currently undergoing treatment at Masindi Kitara Hospital, where it has been admitted.
While there is hope for the baby’s full recovery, the family faces anxiety over the financial burden of medical bills and upkeep during the hospitalization period. Azaru, appealing for assistance, urged Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) to provide financial aid and called for the construction of water sources to prevent such incidents.
Dr. Michael Otaro, the attending physician, mentioned that the baby suffered injuries to the scrotal sack. He assured that the condition could be managed, but due to the sensitivity of the affected body part, recovery would require time.
Julius Kyahura, the chairperson of Budongo sub-county, highlighted that such cases of chimpanzees grabbing children from their mothers are not uncommon, citing this incident as the third in two years. He criticized UWA for what he perceived as an inadequate response to such incidents despite being informed.
In response, Kyahura revealed that the sub-county has initiated the construction of boreholes near forested areas to mitigate the risk of similar attacks.
Masindi district chairperson Cosmas Byaruhanga expressed concern about the attack, notifying UWA officials and awaiting a report from the police. He advised the affected family to leverage the law compelling UWA to compensate individuals affected by wild animals.
Fred Kiiza, the Murchison Falls National Park chief warden, stated that they had not received information about the attack. He assured that upon confirmation, the park authorities would cover all medical expenses and explore appropriate compensation. Kiiza emphasized the importance of determining whether the chimpanzee acted on its own or was involved in poaching.
