KWS to Compensate Man After Python Kills His Dog in Siaya County
The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has confirmed it will compensate a man from Siaya County whose dog was killed by a python, in an incident that captured national attention earlier this week.
The dramatic event occurred on December 29, 2025, in Ugunja, Siaya County, when the man reportedly confronted a python that had attacked his pet dog. In a striking display of determination, he rode his bicycle to Sigomere Police Station carrying the carcasses of both the dog and the python.
Senior Warden Grace Kariuki, who leads KWS operations in Siaya County, visited the man’s home to assess the situation and commend his handling of the incident.
“We’ve come here with my team because the man was attacked by a python, which is a protected wildlife species. It was important for us to visit and support him,” Kariuki said.
The warden praised the man for returning the python’s carcass to the authorities, noting that its skin is considered a government trophy. “Because of that, we have come to support you and provide compensation from the government,” she added.
KWS confirmed that the man has been provided with forms to facilitate the compensation process. Kariuki also highlighted that the agency has skilled personnel trained in snake handling and that captured snakes are often relocated to Ndere Island National Park.
Despite the assurance, the man expressed concern over the response times of wildlife authorities. “I have no issues with the government, but they need to respond faster to such emergencies,” he remarked.
The incident has renewed calls from KWS for residents to report encounters with wildlife promptly rather than taking matters into their own hands. Kariuki urged locals to use official KWS hotlines when encountering wild animals to ensure professional intervention and avoid unnecessary harm.
The python, described as a large constrictor, attacked the dog, prompting the man to kill it in self-defense. KWS continues to stress the importance of community awareness and timely reporting in wildlife-related emergencies.
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KWS to Compensate Man After Python Kills His Dog in Siaya County