Hoima residents living in fear over Chimpanzee attacks
She also promised to engage the responsible ministries to explore ways of supporting families affected by the attacks.
Hoima: Residents of Karongo Ward in Hoima West City Division have expressed growing concern over persistent chimpanzee attacks that have resulted in one death and several injuries over the years.
The concerns were raised during a meeting held on Monday in Bubaale, bringing together residents from Mwendante, Parajwoki, Bubaale North and Bubaale South cells.
Residents say their anger has been heightened by a recent attack over the weekend in which an eight-year-old boy was injured. According to the affected communities, chimpanzee attacks have caused frequent losses, injuries, and financial burdens.
The residents are demanding government compensation, citing failure by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) to relocate the chimpanzees from the area.
Fred Atugonza, the LC I Chairperson of Bubaale North Cell, revealed that at least nine children have been attacked by chimpanzees over the years. He said one child died while others sustained permanent disabilities, noting that there are more than 30 chimpanzees roaming the area.
The Hoima City Woman Member of Parliament, Asinasi Nyakato, advised residents to draft a joint petition, which she pledged to present on the floor of Parliament.
Nyakato also promised to engage the responsible ministries to explore ways of supporting families affected by the attacks.
The residents and their Woman MP agreed to include several demands in the petition, including the degazettement of the area to allow for the relocation of the chimpanzees, compensation for victims, and compensation for crops and foodstuffs destroyed by the animals.
Do you have an advertisement or article you want to publish? Mail us at theugreports@gmail.com or WhatsApp +256757022363.
