Juja: Heartbreak As PP1 Pupils Bid Farewell To Classmate Mauled By Hyenas

• Emotions ran high as pre-primary pupils gathered at the home of Njoroge Gitau to pay their last respects
• The five-year-old was tragically mauled to death by marauding hyenas near his home in Juja
• As the small casket was lowered into the ground, the cries of the children, too young to understand, echoed in the air

Juja, Kenya – A sombre atmosphere engulfed Nyacaba village as PP1 pupils from a local school tearfully bid farewell to their departed classmate.

Five-year-old Njoroge Gitau was tragically mauled to death by marauding hyenas near his home.

The tragedy sparked an outcry about human-wildlife conflict in the area, with many blaming the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) for its laxity.

His classmates, some too young to fully comprehend the loss, gathered to send off their friend with heartfelt tributes.

They clutched flowers and handmade cards in honour of their colleague, many struggling to hold back tears.

Parents, teachers, and community members attended Njoroge’s emotional sendoff, remembering him as a bright and joyful child.

They eulogised him for his sweet soul, energy and laughter that filled the classroom, adding that his absence was heartbreaking.

As the small casket was lowered into the ground, the cries of the children, too young to understand such a cruel loss, echoed in the air.

Njoroge’s tragic death is the latest in a series of incidents where residents have suffered from attacks by wild animals in the region.

Residents of Nyacaba, located on the outskirts of Juja, have long struggled with wild animals due to their homes' proximity to undeveloped land.

The recent attack has reignited concerns and prompted calls for authorities to address the dangers posed by human-wildlife conflicts.

Local leaders have called on KWS to take immediate action to prevent further loss of life.