Residents of Ithare village in Kabare Ward, Gichugu, Kirinyaga County, have appealed to the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) to urgently intervene as a growing population of monkeys destroys crops and threatens community safety.
Locals say the situation has worsened over the past three years, with the animals becoming increasingly bold and aggressive.
Crops Destroyed, Livelihoods at Risk
According to resident Peter Nyaga, monkeys have devastated key crops, including maize and macadamia nuts, leaving farmers counting losses.
“I am urging the government to step in. All my crops and macadamia trees have been destroyed. We have tried every method to chase them away, even using dogs, but nothing works,” Nyaga said.
Many farmers in the area depend on these crops for both food and income.
Safety Fears as Monkeys Harass Residents
Another villager, Jamleck Muriuki, raised concerns over the animals’ increasingly threatening behavior, particularly toward women.
“The monkeys are chasing women to the river when they go to fetch water and even entering homes to steal food,” Muriuki said.
He also noted that delayed response from authorities has made the problem worse.
“We were told the nearest KWS office is in Embu County instead of Kirinyaga, which delays response.”
Community Living in Fear
Resident Jane Wairimu said the monkeys’ behavior has grown more audacious, creating fear and anxiety within the community.
“They are even targeting women regardless of how they are dressed, sniffing and behaving aggressively. This has created fear in the community,” she said.
Call for Immediate Action
Residents are now urging KWS and county authorities to take swift action to control the monkey population, protect crops, and ensure the safety of community members.
They warn that without urgent intervention, both livelihoods and public safety in Ithare village remain at serious risk.
