Kasese Farmers Call For Electric Fence & Compensation After Elephant Raids Destroy Crops

By Kemigisa Jamila

Farmers in Kasese Municipality are increasingly frustrated by frequent elephant invasions that have devastated their crop farms. These destructive raids have resulted in significant financial losses, prompting farmers to call on the government for immediate intervention, including compensation and the installation of an electric fence to protect their livelihoods.

Jayrace Kahungu, a local farmer, described how elephants, often wandering from Queen Elizabeth National Park, have become a persistent threat. These animals invade farms at night, trampling vast sections of crops and leaving farmers with substantial economic losses.

Mageya Ruhweza, another affected farmer, expressed disappointment that repeated appeals for an electric fence along the park’s boundary have gone unanswered. With no deterrent in place, farmers remain at the mercy of these relentless invasions, suffering heavy losses.

Dan Kahungu and Mathias Mageya, speaking on behalf of fellow farmers, stressed the urgent need for government compensation to offset the destruction of their crops and the financial hardships caused by these incursions. They argued that since the loss of crops directly affects their ability to sustain their families and businesses, the government must take responsibility.

Responding to these concerns, Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) Communications Officer Bashir Hanji acknowledged the challenges posed by wildlife encroachment. He assured farmers that efforts are underway to install fencing in some areas but admitted that financial and logistical hurdles have slowed progress.

The persistent elephant raids in Kasese underscore the urgent need for effective wildlife management strategies to protect farmland and secure farmers’ livelihoods. As the crisis continues, the demand for both compensation and long-term protective measures, such as electric fencing, remains critical.