KWS Issues Urgent Advisory After Hyena Spotted Roaming in Syokimau
Residents of Syokimau in Machakos County have been urged to remain alert after a hyena was reportedly spotted roaming near residential areas, triggering concern among locals and prompting an active response from the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS).
In a public advisory issued on Monday, KWS confirmed that the wild animal was reported on Sunday, May 10, along Mwananchi Road off Eastport Drive in Syokimau, an area located near the outskirts of Nairobi and close to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
According to the agency, officers from its Problem Animal Control (PAC) unit were immediately dispatched to the location following reports from members of the public. Although the team did not directly encounter the hyena during the operation, fresh footprints discovered in the area indicated that the animal had recently passed through.
KWS said surveillance and monitoring efforts have since been intensified as officers attempt to track the animal’s movement and ensure the safety of residents.
“Preliminary findings suggest the hyena may be moving through bushy and isolated land behind JKIA toward Katani,” the agency stated.
The advisory follows the circulation of several videos on social media appearing to show a hyena wandering near homes and roads within Syokimau, sparking anxiety among residents.
Some locals expressed fears over the safety of children, joggers, and pedestrians, particularly during early morning and late evening hours when visibility is low and wildlife movement may go unnoticed.
Despite the concern, KWS sought to reassure the public that the situation is under control and that officers are closely monitoring developments.
“KWS wishes to assure the public that all necessary precautionary measures are being undertaken and there is no cause for panic,” the agency said in part of its statement.
However, residents were strongly advised not to approach, corner, or provoke the animal if sighted. The agency also urged parents and guardians to keep children under close supervision, especially in areas near bushes, open fields, and poorly lit roads.
KWS further encouraged members of the public to immediately report any wildlife sightings to the nearest KWS station or local authorities to support ongoing tracking efforts.
“Residents are, however, advised to remain vigilant, avoid approaching or provoking the animal, and keep children under close supervision,” the agency added.
The latest incident has once again highlighted growing concerns over increased human-wildlife encounters in areas bordering Nairobi National Park and wildlife corridors, where rapid urban expansion continues to bring residential estates closer to natural habitats.
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