Statement on the reported elephant deaths in Kenya's Amboseli ecosystem

We are deeply concerned by reports of the deaths of 15 elephants in Kenya's Amboseli ecosystem and welcome the swift response by the Kenya Wildlife Service and its partners to investigate the cause. 

"This incident is deeply alarming. It reminds us just how vulnerable wildlife remains to emerging and often unpredictable threats. Every elephant is essential to the health of its ecosystem, shaping landscapes in ways that benefit countless other species. When we lose elephants on this scale, the impact reaches far beyond a single herd—it affects the resilience of the entire ecosystem and reinforces why we must continue investing in science, monitoring, and collaborative conservation efforts,” Ben Wandago, IFAW Country Director, Kenya. 

Every elephant lost is significant—not only for the species, but for the health of the ecosystems they help sustain and the communities that live alongside them. The reports that many of the animals affected were females and calves make these losses especially troubling. 

It is essential that the investigation be allowed to establish the facts before drawing conclusions. Determining whether these deaths were caused by environmental contamination, disease, poisoning, or another factor is critical to preventing further losses and ensuring an effective response. 

This incident is a reminder of the importance of sustained investment in wildlife health surveillance, rapid-response capacity, scientific research, and strong collaboration among government agencies, conservation organizations, researchers, and local communities. Early detection and coordinated action are vital to protecting wildlife and maintaining resilient ecosystems. 

IFAW stands with our conservation partners in Kenya and supports efforts to establish the cause of these deaths as quickly as possible. We hope the findings will inform measures that safeguard elephants and the landscapes they depend on for generations to come.