Kenya Power has is in trouble yet again after giraffes were electrocuted to death at Soysambu Conservancy in Nakuru.
A statement from the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) confirmed that Kenya Power is expected to replace the electricity poles within the area to prevent electrocution of giraffes.
“At the same time Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Najib Balala is engaging the Energy Cabinet Secretary Charles Keter on the same for a lasting solution,” KWS said.
Immediate press release! What is it importante to put the population figures? A simple interpretation can means that the death of 2 giraffes is a drop in the ocean and doesn't affect their population. I find it very sarcastic. pic.twitter.com/X05O4EvUKO
— Joshua Wambugu (@jwambugu83) February 22, 2021
Kenyans had taken to Twitter on Sunday evening to express their anger and dismay after pictures emerged of the giraffes that were electrocuted to death.
Here is the video courtesy of Citizen TV’s official Twitter account.
Giraffes electrocuted:
Three giraffes electrocuted in Soysambu conservancy. Kenya Power says it will modify low lying power lines #SundayLive pic.twitter.com/JKD4qNMeG1
— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) February 21, 2021
Some questioned why Kenya Power has not dealt with low hanging power lines despite several complaints over the past two years.
“@KETRACO1 @kwskenya These distressing photos of endangered Rothschilds giraffe killed on power line in Soysambu today have troubled people around t/ world. No delay. Pls take urgent action. Giraffes are endangered – @IUCN @StateHouseKenya Asante,” said Dr. Paula Kahumbu, a wildlife conservationist and CEO of Wildlife Direct.
“Dear @KenyaPower_Care @KenyaPower How many more giraffes do you want to see lying lifeless before you rectify the low power lines at Soysambu conservancy? Really sad to see such beautiful species electrocuted! Stop the killing!” said Elizabth Wathuti, the Head of Campaigns at Wangari Maathai Foundation.
“@KenyaPower_Care PLEASE URGENTLY GO AND RAISE THE POWER LINES IN SOYSAMBU BEFORE WE LOSE MORE WILDLIFE. The costly effect of low power lines on wildlife in Soysambu farm. This is so heart-breaking,” said Jackie Arkle, a conservationist and environmentalist.
When we say such structures should not pass through the parks people ask why! This disturbing photos of electrocuted Giraffes at Soysambu should send a strong message to KenyaPower.
In a statement to newsrooms @kwskenya says only 2 giraffes were electrocuted and there is no mention of the over 11 giraffes killed in previous occasions. pic.twitter.com/xYfgZpCBXt
— Odeo Sirari (@OdeoSirari) February 21, 2021
Soysambu conservancy is an IBA, home to over 450 recorded species of birds. 2 months ago over 50 flamingoes were electrocuted. The ESIA relied on by this Ketraco1 project is FLAWED & INVALID. To prevent more deaths, there’s only one solution…MOVE THEM.
