Two people in Kasese district are currently in critical conditions after being attacked by a Hippo.
The victims, all residents of Buhweju parish, Bwehweju Sub County have been identified as 56 year old John Owe, and Junior Bwambale, 17 years, both from the same community.
While speaking to media from his hospital bed today Thursday, 11th September at Canopus Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals Uganda Limited, Owe recounted the terrifying moment he encountered the animal while returning from his garden around 1pm on Tuesday.
Bwambale’s condition is even more dire. His mother, Lucia Kapamba, said her son was gored in the stomach, leaving his internal organs exposed.
He is currently admitted at Mt St Mary’s Hospital in critical condition.
Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) rangers who responded to the scene neutralized the hippo and took away its carcass.
Bashir Hanji, UWA’s Communications Officer, confirmed the incident and expressed sympathy for the victims and their families.
Hanji, however, admitted that human–wildlife conflict remains a persistent challenge despite interventions such as erecting electric fences around protected areas.
“Despite efforts such as putting up the electric fence, wild animals still find their way into residential areas, and this remains a big challenge,” he said.
Hippos are particularly notorious for their aggressiveness and are considered among the most dangerous animals in the wild.
While UWA has intensified efforts to address human–wildlife conflicts, including compensating victims and expanding electric fencing in high-risk areas, residents argue that more needs to be done to protect communities living near national parks.
