Masindi
Residents of Wiliya Village in Budongo Sub County are in shock following a tragic incident in which chimpanzees attacked and killed a three-month-old baby.
The incident happened on Saturday near Budongo Forest, where the child’s mother and other women had gone to collect firewood.
According to eyewitness Harriet Katusiime, the baby began crying and the mother attempted to breastfeed, when chimpanzees suddenly emerged from the forest, grabbed the infant, and disappeared back into the forest.
Another resident, Mark Bogere, says he rushed to the scene after hearing loud chimpanzee noises. He found a group of chimpanzees, one of which was attacking the baby.
When he tried to intervene, the animals dropped the child and fled. The infant later died while being rushed to a nearby clinic.
Cue in.… Bogere on chimps RR
The child’s father, Julius Birija, has called on the Uganda Wildlife Authority to take urgent action, citing repeated deadly attacks in the area.
Cue in.… Birija on support RR
Local leaders say human-wildlife conflict is escalating. LC1 Chairperson Hannington Andama warned that chimpanzees are increasingly venturing into communities and urged government to fence off forest boundaries and provide alternative water sources to reduce contact.
Cue in…. Andama on attacks Eng
Wilson Kagoro from the Uganda Wildlife Authority say a team has been dispatched to investigate the incident. They note that chimpanzee attacks may qualify for compensation if they occur outside protected areas.
Cue in…. Kagoro on compensation Eng
