By Joel Clinton
In the quiet village of Akingli, located in Kisumu West constituency, farmers wake before dawn to protect their farms. They are not guarding against human thieves; instead, they face a different kind of enemy, the monkey mafia. Once a peaceful farming community, Akingli has become a battleground between determined villagers and clever primates who have mastered the art of stealing.
Every morning, groups of monkeys come down from the hills overlooking Korando and Kotetni. They raid maize fields, uproot cassava, and pick ripe bananas before the farmers can harvest. “These monkeys are smarter than pickpockets,” says Mama Risper, a widow who relies on her small farm for survival. “They come in groups; some act as scouts while others steal. Before you even try to chase them away, they are gone with half your crop.”
The boldness of these primates has surprised the locals. They no longer fear slings or shouting. Some monkeys have even learned to open kitchen windows to steal sweet potatoes and fruits left on tables. Children often feel scared as monkeys dash through the yards, knocking over pots in search of food.
The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has advised residents to use thorn fences, pepper oil, and patience, but villagers say these methods cannot stop the destruction. “We’ve tried everything. We’ve banged tins, burned old clothes to make smoke, and even kept dogs, but they always come back,” laments George Otieno, a farmer whose half-acre of groundnuts was wiped out in a week.
Desperation has led some villagers to take shifts guarding their crops with catapults and drums. Others have stopped farming altogether. The local chief, Mr. Osege, has called for KWS to step in, warning that food insecurity is getting worse.
As the sun sets over Akingli, farmers gather under a mango tree, discussing new ways to protect their harvest. Meanwhile, the monkeys watch from the treetops, eyes glinting with mischief, waiting for nightfall to claim their prize.
In Akingli, the battle between humans and monkeys goes on, a daily fight for survival and dignity where cleverness and perseverance are put to the test.
