Kenya Wildlife Services (KWS) has begun compensation procedures for a 47-year-old farmer, Charles Otieno, who killed a python that attacked and killed his dog in Luoka, Ugunja Sub-County.
Otieno confirmed that discussions with KWS officials and Sigomere police officers on January 1, 2026, concluded with the signing of a document allowing the compensation process to begin.
“The KWS gave me a form to fill out, and I have completed my part. We now await the area chief and a veterinary officer to finalize the form and guide us on the compensation fee,” Otieno said.
Speaking in Ugunja town, Otieno described the process as a positive outcome following the distressing loss of his dog.
“As of now, I do not know the exact amount that will be paid, but I am aware that I have submitted my details and await feedback from KWS,” he added.
KWS Emphasizes Protection of Wildlife
KWS officers reminded residents not to kill wild animals, urging them instead to report sightings so trained personnel can safely handle the situation. Siaya County Warden Sheilla Ochieng confirmed that affected farmers, including Otieno, would be compensated, while emphasizing that wildlife should not be harmed.
“We are working on modalities to ensure he is compensated, but we stress that such snakes should not be killed. KWS should be called to capture them instead,” Ochieng said.
“Attacking wild animals can make them dangerous and unpredictable, so the safest course is always to alert authorities.”
Incident Details
Otieno recounted that the python had been troubling villagers for some time, preying on livestock including chickens, goats, and sheep.
“While working on the farm, I noticed my poultry making unusual noise. I sent my dog to investigate, but when it went silent after barking three times, I realized the snake was approaching me,” he said.
Armed with a panga, Otieno engaged the snake and eventually killed it to protect himself.
“I could not call KWS at that moment and had to defend myself. That is why I killed it,” he explained.
Otieno transported both the dead dog and the snake to Sigomere Madungu Police Station to seek compensation. Initially, officers blocked his access to the office, but public intervention ensured he could submit his case.
This case highlights the challenges faced by farmers in rural areas who encounter dangerous wildlife and underscores KWS’s role in balancing human safety with wildlife protection.
