Kenya’s tourism industry and conservation efforts are being threatened by drought-induced violence.
On the night of Mar.
29, suspected herdsmen burnt an exclusive safari lodge owned by prominent Italian-born, Kenyan author and conservationist Kuki Gallmann.
The raid was the latest in a series of attacks on private properties in drought-stricken Laikipia.
Over the last few months, cattle herders have invaded luxury lodges, ranches, and conservancies in search of fresh pasture for their herds.
Kenya is one of the several east African nations affected by a harsh drought, with the Red Cross stating that three million Kenyans are in need of emergency food aid.
The spike in attacks has also left a bloody trail, with a dozen people dead, including mothers and children.
Tristan Voorspuy, a dual Kenyan and British national, was also found dead in early March after he ventured to inspect burnt houses on the Sosian safari lodge.
Residents and ranch owners say the attacks against them have intensified after the government recently deployed the military to quell the violence.
Cattle herders have also blamed the government for reportedly shooting on hundreds of their livestock grazing these ranches.