Kirinyaga: Residents in fear as hippos invade homes, destroy crops

Residents living near River Sagana in Kirinyaga County are living in fear as hippos venture into their homes, causing destruction and chaos.

The hippos, which sometimes settle at Karura Swamp, have become a menace, with residents expressing deep concern over their safety and livelihoods.

John Muriithi of Shika Adabu village recounted a harrowing experience, saying, "Three hippos stormed into my home late at night. I started shouting, and they eventually moved back to Karura Swamp."

Joseph Maingi from Karura village had a close call when a hippo charged at him, only passing when he lay down on the ground in fear.

Meanwhile, Diana Wakiini’s crops were destroyed by five hippos, leaving her with nothing to harvest.

Women in the area are particularly worried, with men equally afraid to venture out after dark.

"My husband didn't come home yesterday. I told him to find somewhere to stay because of the hippos. We're even using buckets for short calls out of fear," Wakiini shared.

The villagers are appealing to authorities to intervene and find a lasting solution to the escalating problem.