Elephant deaths in Kenya: suspected cause is pesticide residues on tomatoes

Between June 24 and July 24, 2026, 15 dead elephants were discovered in the vicinity of Amboseli National Park in southern Kenya. According to a preliminary version provided by experts from the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), the poisoning was caused by tomatoes grown on nearby farms that had been treated with pesticides. Laboratory analysis of samples taken from the animal carcasses revealed the presence of cyanide.

Of the 15 individuals, ten displayed signs of paralysis before death, which occurred within two days of discovery. The other five elephants were found already dead. The deceased animals vary in age and sex, indicating that the incident was not linked to any specific group or demographic category. At the current stage of the investigation, representatives of environmental agencies have ruled out the possibility of intentional harm.

This incident has highlighted the issue of agricultural land expansion near the Amboseli ecosystem, where elephants often enter fields in search of water and food. According to the Amboseli Trust for Elephants, the total elephant population in this region exceeded 2,000 individuals as of 2025. Authorities note that such large-scale animal mortality in this area, where poaching had previously been effectively curtailed, is the first occurrence in several decades.

For the local population, the authorities have issued a clarification stating that the toxic substances that caused the elephants' deaths do not pose a direct threat to humans.