Women in Gichugu raise alarm over 'targeted attacks' as monkeys wreak havoc

Residents of Ithare village in Kabare Ward, Gichugu, Kirinyaga County, are calling on Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) to intervene and control the growing population of monkeys that are destroying crops and threatening community members.

According to Peter Nyaga, a local resident, the monkeys have been wreaking havoc on vital crops such as maize and macadamia nuts. “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.

Another resident, Jamleck Muriuki, said the monkeys have started harassing women, especially when they go to fetch water. “It is alarming that the monkeys are chasing women to the river and even entering homes to steal food. We were also told that the nearest KWS office is in Embu County instead of Kirinyaga, which delays response,” Muriuki added.

Jane Wairimu expressed concern over the monkeys’ audacious behavior in the past three years. “They are even targeting women regardless of how they are dressed, sniffing and behaving aggressively. This has created fear in the community,” Wairimu said.

Residents are urging authorities to take immediate action to protect both their livelihoods and safety.