Tension has engulfed the Amboseli area in Kajiado South following an alleged assault on a herder by Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) officers on the evening of October 5, 2025.
The herder reportedly suffered serious head injuries after a confrontation with KWS officers near Amboseli National Park. The clash is said to have occurred when livestock strayed into the park in search of water and pasture during the ongoing dry spell.
According to Olgulului Group Ranch Secretary Joseph Taani, a disagreement between the herder and officers led to the incident. He noted that similar tensions often arise during drought periods when both herders and wildlife compete for limited resources.
The assault sparked outrage among local residents, who accused KWS of mistreating herders while taking no action against wild animals that frequently invade community land. In response, residents have threatened to block the Amboseli National Park gate for a full day in protest if the matter is not addressed.
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The incident has renewed debate over the long-standing conflicts between park authorities and pastoral communities living around Amboseli. Locals have continued to call for fair treatment, arguing that enforcement efforts should protect both wildlife and the livelihoods of people who depend on livestock.
As of now, KWS has not issued an official statement on the matter.
By Benedict Aoya
