Residents of Kasenda Sub-county in Kabarole District are calling on the government to construct an electric fence around Kibale National Park to prevent frequent invasions by wild animals. They report that elephants, chimpanzees, and monkeys routinely enter their gardens, causing destruction and sometimes injuring people.

Kabareka, the LC I Chairperson of Nyabweya B Village, expressed concern over the losses farmers face due to these intrusions. “Families invest heavily in farming to feed their children and sell the surplus for school fees and other needs, but they are left devastated when wild animals raid their gardens,” he said. Kabareka noted that within the past year alone, four individuals have been attacked by elephants and chimpanzees.

As a solution, Kabareka urged the government to replicate the electric fence used in Kasese District around Queen Elizabeth National Park. Canary Byamugisha, a local resident, highlighted the efforts the community has made to deter the animals. He said they have already dug a 28-kilometer trench, constructed a 120-meter wooden bridge, planted trees, and even installed beehives but the wildlife continues to breach their defenses.

Ruth Ninsiima described the broader impact on education, explaining that some children are forced to stay home from school to help guard crops from monkeys and chimpanzees. Elisha Magezi, another resident, voiced frustration over the slow compensation process for damaged gardens. “We ask the government to quicken the process because when it takes long, it disrupts our developmental programs,” he stated.

Chairperson Rwabuhinga confirmed that the district has formally requested the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities to install an electric fence around the park. He also appealed to the government to increase the portion of revenue shared with communities neighboring protected areas.