news 5 May 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Hippo Attacks Kill One and Destroy Crops in Luuka District
A farmer has been killed and gardens devastated by aggressive hippos in several Luuka District sub-counties, prompting urgent calls for government action. Officials are coordinating with wildlife authorities for relocation while urging protective measures for residents. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/one-dead-as-hippos-ravage-luuka-villages-5448370
Farmers in Luuka District are facing severe threats from hippopotamus invasions that have destroyed crops and claimed one life. The most affected areas are Bugambo in Ikumbya Sub-county, Nailika and Kisege in Bukoma Sub-county, and sections of Nabitama Sub-county.
Residents near wetlands report growing fear after a recent fatal attack on a farmer in Ikumbya. Local farmer Amuza Lwanga from Naigobya A village described the destruction: “These animals are very large, and once a hippo enters your garden, it does not leave any plant standing.” He noted repeated complaints to leaders with no resolution.
Babirye Mudondo, another affected farmer, expressed desperation: “We have lost hope, but we cannot abandon our homes. We are asking the government to relocate these animals before more lives are lost.” Village chairperson Wilson Balabye confirmed multiple reports of crop damage.
Assistant Resident District Commissioner Rogers Ntogona stated that officials are working with the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities and Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) on solutions. He advised installing fences and trenches in buffer zones but stressed that wetlands are protected and must not be encroached upon.
Relocation plans for the hippos are in progress, and Ntogona warned that harming wildlife is illegal under Ugandan law.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)