Stray Dogs Claim Lives of Two Children in Kitagwenda; Livestock Also Targeted

Fear and grief have gripped Kitagwenda District after a series of suspected stray dog attacks resulted in the deaths of two children and severe injuries to another. The incidents have primarily occurred in areas including Kigarama, Kabirizi I and II, Kanara Central, and Rwebaare Cell within Kanara Parish.

Local authorities confirmed that the two children, aged between six and ten years, succumbed to their injuries after being bitten. A five-year-old child is currently undergoing medical treatment.

Beyond the tragic human toll, the stray dogs have also inflicted substantial damage on the community’s livestock. Reports indicate that at least 60 goats and four sheep have fallen victim to the attacks. This has added to the growing concern among residents, particularly farmers whose livelihoods are impacted.

Kanara Sub-county chairperson Francis Hategyeka expressed frustration, stating that relevant district departments, including the production office, were notified of the escalating threat. However, he lamented that no tangible intervention had been implemented by the time of reporting.

The unchecked presence of stray dogs has amplified anxiety among residents, with parents deeply concerned for the safety of their children. The community is now making urgent appeals to the government and local authorities to take swift action to control the stray dog population and prevent further harm to both people and livestock.

Efforts to obtain comments from the Kitagwenda District production department regarding their response to the crisis were unsuccessful prior to publication.

Source: Nile Post