The Serere District community is in mourning following the tragic death of Stella Beatrice Kokoi, a 48-year-old mother of 15, who was killed by a crocodile while fishing along the flooded shores of Lake Kyoga.
Kokoi was attacked on Wednesday evening as she attempted to catch fish to feed her family. Her body was recovered on Sunday morning by residents, who found a crocodile attempting to feed on her remains.
The incident has ignited widespread concern over the growing threat of wildlife in flood-affected areas and renewed calls for government intervention and compensation for victims’ families.
During her burial, State Minister for Fisheries and Serere Woman MP Hellen Adoa expressed profound sorrow, describing Kokoi as a breadwinner who had tirelessly supported her children, many of whom are still in school.
“It’s very unfortunate. She has left behind 15 children, some in secondary and primary school. She was the breadwinner. I will follow up with the Ministry of Wildlife to ensure this family receives support,” Adoa said.
The minister attributed the increased wildlife encounters to persistent flooding, which has forced animals such as crocodiles, hippos, and even elephants out of their natural habitats and into human settlements.
“We must earmark these dangerous spots and install protective barriers. Prevention is key,” she emphasized.
Residents remembered Kokoi as a hardworking and resilient woman who shouldered the responsibility of raising a large family alone.
“She was the pillar of this home,” said neighbour Paul Otim. “Her death is a tragedy not just for her children, but for the entire community.”
There is growing pressure on authorities to provide immediate support to Kokoi’s children and implement long-term measures to curb human-wildlife conflict, particularly in vulnerable, flood-prone regions like Serere.
Written By Rodney Mbua
