Fishermen parade the carcass of a killer crocodile that they hunted down at Kanamukuny village along the shores of Lake Turkana on October 13, 2025.
For decades, the shores of Lake Turkana have sustained the lives of fishermen like Josphat Mutei.
With his weathered hands and small raft made of doum palm logs, Mr Mutei has relied on the lake for food, income and everyday life.
But in recent years, the waters that once provided security have turned perilous.
Crocodiles, emboldened by rising water levels and encroachment on their natural habitats, now roam closer to human settlements.
Attacks have surged claiming at least three lives every month, leaving many seriously injured and forcing traditional fishing practices to the edge of extinction.
“At the moment, we can't tell which part of the lake is safe. Massive backflow has swallowed our traditional fishing grounds, and I have been displaced more than five times. I have never seen anything like this in all my years,” says Mutei, his voice tense with frustration.
The danger is not abstract. For communities along Lake Turkana, crocodiles are not just predators but they are a direct threat to survival.
Submerged stumps, thorny trees and slow-moving rafts leave fishermen vulnerable while traders and families who rely on fish fear that further attacks could disrupt both their livelihoods and food supply.
Killed by crocodiles
Even recent interventions by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) have done little to curb the carnage. On January 15, rangers shot a large crocodile terrorising Kakwanyang village, yet attacks intensified elsewhere along the lake. Many residents now see a desperate need for action.
“We are living under constant threat. Between July and August 2025, our community recorded four attacks. Many go unreported because of poor communication networks. It’s impossible to know which areas are safe,” says James Ekutan, a fisherman at Namukuse village.
Fishermen parade the carcass of a killer crocodile that they hunted down at Kanamukuny village along the shores of Lake Turkana on October 13, 2025.
The toll is staggering. Turkana Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai estimates that over 40 people have been killed by crocodiles around the lake. On a recent tour of Kerio Delta Ward, he encountered families still reeling from the loss of loved ones and livelihoods.
To combat the threat, he announced the provision of high-powered boats to fishermen in Lake Kerio, Kalokol and surrounding wards, as part of a controlled crocodile hunting initiative.
Mr Elijah Chege, the KWS Turkana County Warden, explains that the problem is compounded by environmental changes.
“Rising water levels and habitat destruction are forcing crocodiles closer to human settlements. Their aggression spikes during breeding season, increasing the risk of attacks,”Mr Chege explained
KWS is also engaging communities in sensitisation sessions on crocodile behaviour, safe water access and emergency protocols. Children are advised to avoid fishing and livestock must never be left unattended near the water.
“We are engaging local leaders and relevant stakeholders to ensure peaceful coexistence between humans and wildlife. Every effort is being made to safeguard lives and support affected families,” he said.
High-risk zones
The KWS warden confirmed that investigations are ongoing under the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act, although he did not disclose the exact number of cases reported.
“We have deployed rapid units to monitor their movements and intervene in high-risk zones,” Mr Chege said.
For residents, these measures offer some hope, but the fear remains palpable.
“We need swift action. Fishing and meat from the lake must be safe. The authorities must step up to protect both our lives and livelihoods,” says Samuel Koech, a local trader.
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