With the escalating human-wildlife conflict, Meru Governor Rev. Isaac Mutuma M’Ethingia has called on the National government to fast track compensation process to the affected residents.
Governor Mutuma observed that some of the victims from Meru have faced injustices over the years due to delayed compensation from the relevant authorities.
“We have faced invasion by wild animals in various parts of Meru where they destroy our crops. The administration has been filling claim forms for the farmers every season. Isn’t it true? Has anyone been compensated” he posed.
He noted that the chief’s and their assistants have in the past been accused by the public of collaborating with the Kenya Wildlife Services (KWS) over delayed compensation.
“We call on the National government through the CS Rebecca Miano led department for Tourism and Wildlife to follow up on the compensation process, so that our community members are compensated for the destroyed farms and crops” said the governor.
On matters cattle rustling, the Meru governor called on the government to consider restocking the livestock for those affected.
“Our herders have lost their livestock to the neighboring communities. We urge the government to consider those that have lost their livestock and incorporate them in the restocking program” he summed.
