Published on
15/08/2026 - 4:34 GMT+2
At least 19 elephants have died since June in a wildlife region of southern Kenya near the Tanzanian border and Mount Kilimanjaro. The local operations head says the number has now reached 20, while authorities continue trying to establish the cause.
Early tests have suggested cyanide poisoning from pesticides used on nearby farmland. But local wildlife experts say they are not convinced, as other animals feeding on the elephant carcasses have not shown signs of poisoning.
According to Patrick Papatiti, head of operations for Olgulului communal lands, the elephants have reportedly suffered difficulty walking and breathing, as well as restlessness, before becoming unable to stand. "They lie down until they die. At times, you would find one struggling for a day, struggling for two or even three days until they completely die."
