KAJIADO, Kenya — The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has issued an urgent public safety advisory after two lionesses escaped from Nairobi National Park and were last seen in the Sholinke area of Ongata Rongai on Wednesday, January 7, 2026.
Wildlife officials confirmed that the predators were tracked to Sholinke Trading Centre, approximately 8.3 kilometres from the park’s boundary and less than 10 kilometres from the densely populated town centre of Ongata Rongai.
The last recorded coordinates for the animals were 37 M 261961 UTM 9834651, according to official KWS data.
In a statement, KWS said specialised response teams had been deployed to manage the situation.
“Two lionesses from Nairobi National Park have been sighted in the Sholinke Trading Area, approximately 8.3 kilometres from the park boundary. KWS teams are actively managing the situation,” the agency said.
KWS added that veterinary officers and armed rangers were on the ground to ensure the animals are safely recovered and returned to the park.
“Rangers are on site and veterinary teams are en route to safely dart, capture and relocate the lionesses. Public safety remains our highest priority,” the statement said.
Public safety advisory
Authorities have urged residents of Ongata Rongai and neighbouring communities to remain on high alert and strictly observe safety measures until the operation is concluded. Members of the public have been advised to:
- Avoid the Sholinke area until further notice
- Keep children and pets indoors
- Refrain from approaching or attempting to capture the animals
Anyone who spots the lionesses is asked to report immediately via the KWS toll-free line 0800 597 000 or WhatsApp 0726 610 509.
A familiar pattern
The latest incident adds to a growing pattern of human–wildlife encounters in residential zones bordering Nairobi National Park.
In March 2025, a lioness was captured on CCTV footage scaling a concrete wall in a Rongai neighbourhood, triggering widespread concern.
Also Read: Lion kills 14-year-old girl in Nairobi National Park, KWS confirms
Earlier, in 2024, two lions were also recovered from the same area.
Wildlife officers have previously suggested that some of the animals involved in these incidents may belong to the same pride, which appears to be expanding its range beyond traditional park boundaries in search of territory and prey.
KWS has reiterated its commitment to resolving the current situation without harm to the animals or the surrounding communities.
