Joseph Isangura
After months of fear and distress caused by hyena attacks, authorities in Simiyu Region have successfully contained the threat, bringing relief to affected communities.
A special operation launched on January 25, 2025, has resulted in the elimination of 16 hyenas that had been endangering lives and property.
Speaking to reporters on February 19, 2025, Regional Commissioner Kenani Kihongosi assured residents that the operation, carried out by the Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority (TAWA), Tanzania Forest Services (TFS), and the Police Force, has significantly improved safety in the area.
“Following reports of hyena attacks on December 20, 2024, the government took swift action by involving its security agencies. By January 25, 2025, we had expanded the operation across the entire region to ensure that all problematic hyenas were removed,” Kihongosi explained. “I’m pleased to announce that since the start of this effort, 16 hyenas have been neutralized, and the situation is now under control.”
For weeks, residents in parts of Simiyu, particularly in Itilima District, lived in fear as hyenas ventured into villages, attacking livestock and occasionally threatening people. Many had stopped moving at night and early in the morning, worried about encountering the aggressive animals.
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Beatus Maganja, a spokesperson for TAWA, urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with wildlife officers as they continue monitoring the situation. “We encourage everyone to report any unusual sightings of wild animals near human settlements so that appropriate action can be taken quickly,” he said.
Villagers who had been affected by the attacks welcomed the intervention. Mozo Mabula, a resident of Mwamunhu Village, expressed relief: “The situation had become unbearable. We couldn’t even walk safely at night. But since the operation started, things have changed, and we feel much safer.”
While authorities celebrate the success of the operation, they also emphasize the importance of long-term solutions, including strengthening conservation areas and ensuring that wildlife stays within protected habitats. Residents are also encouraged to take extra precautions and report any future sightings of dangerous animals.
