Ngong Forest

Category: Uncategorized | Date: Oct 22 2009 | By: ngongforest

As a conflict mitigation measures,a perimeter electric fence was enacted around the sanctuary in 2003. It has since been effective apart from theft of energizers,batteries and solar panels that served part of the fence which we have not been able to replace, recently persistent theft cases of the fence wires is on the rise . More than 25km electric fence consisting 15 strands of wires which once secured the forest from intruders, is now been rendered ineffective as parts of the fence along the Southern Bypass and other secluded areas is been targeted by thugs. Efforts from the rangers to nab the thugs so far have proved to be an uphill task. We patrolled along the fence,laid ambush at the targeted areas from dawn to dusk, done investigation to find out where the wires are being taken and even visited scrap metal sites neighboring the sanctuary to ascertain if they are being sold there. We have not yet been successful.

We have now intensified our day and night patrol especially during the night since we highly feel the wires are being stolen at this time

Rangers awaiting near one of the targeted part of the fence

The senior ranger has asked the respective authority to seek armed guards to accompany us during the night ambush. Yesterday was the second day ambush ,we were interrupted by a heavy down pour at 10:30 pm forcing us to rush to the main gate briefly to seek refuge. We returned as soon as the rain subsidized but unfortunately the thugs did not show up. However we have not given up yet, it might take some few days or weeks but eventually we are sure we will get hold of the culprit.

Join us by donating towards reviving part of the inactive electric fence.

By ranger Joseph Karanja

Email: jranjus@yahoo.com