The recent deaths of 15 elephants in southern Kenya over the past month are likely due to the animals ingesting pesticides used on nearby tomato farms, according to the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS).

Erustus Kanga, the KWS director general, stated that analysis of samples from the elephant carcasses detected traces of cyanide. This chemical compound is known to be used in farming for predator control and as a pest fumigant, and has also been employed by poachers. The deaths occurred in the Kimana sanctuary and Kuku Group ranch areas, which are adjacent to Amboseli national park.

Kanga explained that cyanide is a highly toxic substance, and elephants consuming it would not survive for long. He also noted that stomach content analysis from one elephant revealed "lots of tomatoes," suggesting agrochemical poisoning. Preliminary findings indicated that 10 of the elephants exhibited signs of partial paralysis before their deaths.

The KWS is investigating the incidents, which took place between June 24 and July 24. The agency warned that the potential contamination could affect a wider population, including livestock like goats and cattle that graze in the area and might consume contaminated crops.

Kimana town is a significant producer of tomatoes. Researchers from the Route to Food Initiative have previously documented the use of cyanide-based substances on crops in the region. This information provides a crucial link between the agricultural practices and the suspected cause of the elephant deaths.

The affected area, encompassing Kimana sanctuary and Kuku Group ranch, covers 392 square kilometers and is home to over 1,600 elephants, along with other wildlife and livestock.

KWS is continuing its investigation to confirm the source and extent of the cyanide contamination. The agency's focus is on understanding how the elephants came into contact with the poison and preventing future occurrences.

The potential poisoning raises concerns about the broader environmental impact and the safety of wildlife and livestock in areas where such agrochemicals are used. The KWS aims to implement measures to mitigate these risks.