Crocodile Attacks Surge at Lake Turkana

On a sunny afternoon in December 2024, Ng’ikalei Loito was swimming in Lake Turkana with her two sisters-in-law when a Nile crocodile attacked her, clamping its jaws around her legs and attempting to drag her underwater. She clung to a partially submerged tree and screamed for help until villagers arrived, causing the crocodile to release her. Though rescued, her legs were severely mangled, and subsequent medical evaluation revealed both legs were turning green with only one toe responsive, leading to a double amputation.

Loito’s attack is one of seven fatalities and 15 injuries recorded in the past year along Lake Turkana, where rising water levels have shifted crocodile habitats closer to human settlements. The crocodiles, which can grow up to six metres long and weigh up to 900kg, have increasingly encroached on fishing zones and residential areas as the lake expands, escalating human-wildlife conflict in north-west Kenya.

Community Response and Ongoing Threat

In response to the surge in attacks, the Turkana County Government, in collaboration with the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), launched a community engagement initiative in Kalokol and surrounding fishing areas. A public forum held in October 2025 brought together KWS officials, local fishermen, beach management units, persons with disabilities, women and youth groups, local chiefs, and political leaders to address the growing danger. The forum was supported by the Kenya Red Cross Society.

Residents have reported a notable increase in crocodile sightings and attacks, which they attribute to rising lake levels pushing the reptiles closer to homes and fishing zones in search of breeding grounds and food. Despite raising concerns with KWS, local fishermen say little has been done to mitigate the risk, leaving them continuously exposed to life-threatening encounters while working in crocodile-prone areas.

Wider Impact on Livelihoods and Displacement

The rising waters of Lake Turkana have not only increased crocodile encounters but have also swallowed entire villages, displacing residents and disrupting traditional livelihoods. Fishermen operating in affected areas say they face constant threats of death, permanent injury, and lost income as they are forced to work in increasingly dangerous zones. The expansion of the lake has altered the landscape significantly, submerging homes and grazing lands and compelling communities to adapt to a rapidly changing environment.

As of April 17, 2026, the situation along Lake Turkana remains critical, with no immediate resolution to the dual challenges of environmental displacement and heightened crocodile attacks. Local authorities continue to monitor the situation, but residents express ongoing fear for their safety and livelihoods as the lake’s encroachment shows no signs of reversing.