At least 14 elephants have died under mysterious circumstances around Amboseli National Park, with the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) launching an urgent investigation to establish what caused the deaths.
KWS insiders told kenyanbulletin.com that as many as 16 elephants may have died over the past two weeks, although 14 cases have so far been confirmed.
KWS Head of Communication Duncan Wanyama confirmed that the elephants were found dead in different locations surrounding the park, between 15 and 30 kilometres from the park’s boundaries.
According to KWS, the affected elephants were of different ages and sexes, with the deaths occurring over a period of about three weeks. The unusual pattern has raised concern among conservationists and local leaders.
"When I spoke to the head of the Rapid Response Team (RRT), he told me they were still gathering information before reaching a conclusion. He also clarified that the elephants did not die inside Amboseli National Park. They were found on surrounding ranches, some about 15 kilometres away from the park and others nearly 30 kilometres away," Wanyama said.
The wildlife agency said the cause of death remains unknown as investigations continue. Veterinary officers based at Amboseli have begun collecting information, while samples from the elephants have been sent to the Government Chemist for further analysis.
Kajiado Governor Joseph Ole Lenku has called on KWS to speed up investigations and provide clear answers on what caused the deaths.
Ole Lenku said local communities have a strong connection with the elephants, arguing that the animals and the land they inhabit are part of the community’s heritage and should not be treated as a matter controlled only by KWS.
He said the delay in revealing the cause of death has increased frustration among residents who want answers before more elephants are lost.
"We said, what is happening to our elephants? These animals are ours. We want to get a report. Because KWS has taken samples. We want to get a report: what killed thirteen of our elephants in three weeks? It has never happened," Ole Lenku stated.
The deaths have also renewed debate over the delayed transfer of Amboseli National Park management to the Narok County Government, an issue linked to wider disagreements over control and administration of the park.
The matter has attracted political attention, with some local leaders threatening to withdraw support for President William Ruto in the 2027 General Election if answers on the elephant deaths and the management dispute are not provided.
"I am waiting for the governor's name. He is the one who said he prayed for this embargo. If he doesn't say the deadline is this, I am saying to the Maasai, there is no way to give votes to Ruto," one council of elders member stated.