KIKUUBE, January 21, 2025 – Farmers in Kabwoya Sub-county, Kikuube district, are expressing growing concern over the rising number of stray dogs in the area, which have been attacking, killing, and eating their livestock.
The farmers say these stray dogs have become a major threat to humans and livestock.
Julius Byaruhanga, a resident of Nyairongo village, Kabwoya parish, shared that on Friday night, the stray dogs attacked his farm, killing three of his sheep and leaving others severely injured.
“These goats and sheep have been my primary source of income. The dogs attacked and killed them. We’ve spoken to the owners, but they are unwilling to compensate me,” Byaruhanga explained, calling on local leaders to step in and ensure that dog owners take responsibility for their animals.
James Byaruhanga, another affected resident, also expressed frustration, describing the stray dogs as a growing threat to the community. He recounted an incident last week when the dogs attacked his goats while they were grazing in the bush. Three of his goats were killed and eaten.
“We are afraid to move around, especially sending children to fetch water, because of these stray dogs. We urgently need our leaders to intervene,” Byaruhanga said.
Desire Nkuluzinza, the Chairperson of Nyairongo village, confirmed these incidents, noting that this was not the first time dogs had attacked livestock in the area. He recalled an incident last year when dogs killed five goats and calves from a local farm, but the owners of the dogs were reluctant to offer compensation.
Nkuluzinza also expressed concerns about the health risks posed by the dogs, many of which are not vaccinated. He warned that the dogs could pose a serious threat to human health, potentially spreading rabies.
“I urge the Kikuube District Veterinary Officer to intervene and take action to remove these stray dogs before they turn on humans,” Nkuluzinza said.
In response to the complaints, Boaze Ayebaza, one of the dog owners, apologised, explaining that the dogs often sneak out of the kennel without his knowledge. Ayebaza expressed a willingness to compensate the victims for their losses.
Barnabas Ntume, the Kikuube district Senior Production Officer, stated that he was unaware of the incidents but promised to investigate the situation. He also assured the community that appropriate action would be taken if necessary, including the possible culling of the stray dogs.
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