Kidepo Elephants Kill Two in Agago, Injure Two Others

What the report says

Two people were killed and two others injured in separate elephant attacks in Agago District, northern Uganda, on October 12, according to Nile Post. The incidents were reported in Lapono and Lukole sub-counties, areas near Kidepo Valley National Park where residents say elephants have repeatedly entered settlements. In the same period, suspected Karamojong raiders also stole seven cattle, adding to local security concerns.

Nile Post said the first fatal attack happened in Te-Obiya Village, Kaket Parish, Lapono Sub-county, where 16-year-old Oyoo Marachiliano was trampled to death. Another resident, 60-year-old Rose Awor, was attacked, and 16-year-old Robert Mwaka was injured while trying to help her. The elephants also killed a bull, increasing losses for the affected household. A separate elephant attack in Bwol Village, Kiwaro Parish, Lukole Sub-county, killed a 32-year-old man.

Local officials, including Lapono Sub-county LC3 chairperson Jakalia Oryema Atom and Agago Resident District Commissioner James Nabinson Kidega Nok, confirmed the incidents and urged calm while calling for government action. The Uganda Wildlife Authority also confirmed the elephant attacks, according to the report.

The article highlights longstanding tensions in Agago over human-wildlife conflict, cattle theft and food insecurity. Residents are asking for measures such as trenches, more ranger patrols, stronger anti-theft security and compensation for losses, arguing that repeated incursions are threatening livelihoods and safety.