Kajiado county leaders, led by Governor Joseph Ole Lenku, have intensified calls for the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) to expedite investigations into the deaths of 14 elephants within the Amboseli ecosystem and to publicly share the results.

The elephant carcasses, representing various ages and sexes, were found in multiple locations across Amboseli National Park in June, an event described by the leaders as unprecedented and alarming to communities living alongside the wildlife.

Leaders Demand Transparency and Urgent Reporting

Following a consultative meeting with KWS officials on July 28, 2026, Governor Lenku emphasized the need for immediate release of laboratory findings from samples taken from the carcasses. He highlighted the unusual nature of the deaths over a short three-week period, stating, "This park is dying. We have never seen such an incident before."

Local leaders underscored that the elephants are a shared heritage between the government and local communities, asserting that conservation efforts affect them directly. Governor Lenku remarked, "These animals are not only KWS’s; they belong to us all. This land is ours."

KWS Responds Amid Ongoing Investigations

The Kenya Wildlife Service confirmed that investigations are ongoing, with veterinary teams analyzing collected samples in Kajiado. KWS Head of Communications Duncan Juma stated the agency is awaiting scientific results before drawing conclusions, though he questioned the accuracy of the number of deaths cited by some leaders without providing alternative figures.

Underlying Tensions and Concerns Over Amboseli Management

The incident has highlighted growing friction between KWS and county leaders regarding Amboseli National Park’s management. The park, renowned for its elephant herds and views of Mount Kilimanjaro, faces challenges including deteriorating road infrastructure, which local leaders say hampers tourism and conservation efforts.

Additionally, leaders criticized delays in transferring management responsibilities of Amboseli to the county government, accusing KWS leadership of obstructing the process through legal means. One leader urged KWS to be transparent about ongoing issues, stating, "If I lead, I announce it clearly. Do not hide what is happening in Amboseli."

Governor Lenku has long advocated for increased community involvement in park management, citing the direct costs borne by locals due to human-wildlife conflicts and land use restrictions.