Truth Behind Viral Video of Kenyans Chasing a Buffalo Emerges After Ruto’s Import Plan

After President William Ruto announced plans to import buffaloes to support the dairy sector a video went viral showing people chasing a buffalo. Many shared it online and some claimed it happened right after the announcement.

A fact-check has now established that the footage is old. It links to a human-wildlife conflict incident in Barut in Nakuru West on April 5 2025.

The clip shows residents confronting buffaloes that strayed from Lake Nakuru National Park. Kenya Wildlife Service officers moved in to handle the situation.

The incident caused panic in the area after four buffaloes reportedly escaped from the park. One of the animals was shot dead after it attacked two women.

The footage captures residents gathering around the dead buffalo and scrambling for its meat shortly after officers shot it.

One resident questioned the response to the repeated wildlife incursions. Another appealed to KWS to set up a camp in the area to help deal with the problem.

The resident said the buffaloes had been entering the neighbourhood repeatedly for several months. Residents also called for fencing to keep wild animals out of their homes.

The video shows a real incident but its date matters. The report in the clip refers to the day it was first broadcast and not the day it is now being shared.

Sharing it without the original date gives viewers the wrong impression that a fresh invasion has happened. It should not be presented as proof of a new incident without independent confirmation.

The Kenya Wildlife Service describes Lake Nakuru National Park as a wildlife sanctuary. It advises people to keep a safe distance from animals.

https://x.com/PeopleDailyKe/status/2109197233619153165

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