On February 4, 2025, a tragic incident unfolded in the Karenga Community Wildlife Area (KCWA) near Kidepo Valley National Park, where an American sport hunter, Mr. Frank Stuart Cox, lost his life after being fatally gored by a buffalo during a scheduled hunting expedition.
The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) confirmed the incident in an official press release, expressing deep regret over the loss of life and providing details about the harrowing encounter.
Details of the Incident
On February 3, 2025, Mr. Cox was accompanied by his colleague, Mr. Trappe Mini Rudolf Francis, also an American citizen, along with a Uganda Wildlife Authority ranger and a Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) officer. The group was conducting a licensed sport hunting expedition in the KCWA, a designated conservation area outside Kidepo Valley National Park.
During the hunt, they encountered a group of five buffaloes. After shooting one of the animals, it retreated into a dense thicket. When the team attempted to locate it, the wounded buffalo charged unexpectedly, fatally goring Mr. Cox and seriously injuring Mr. Francis. The buffalo was later neutralized by the team.
Rescue and Investigation Efforts
Emergency protocols were immediately enacted, and arrangements were made to airlift the victims from Kidepo National Park to Kampala for urgent medical attention. Sadly, Mr. Cox succumbed to his injuries before the evacuation aircraft arrived. Mr. Francis was successfully transported to Kampala, where he is receiving medical treatment.
Local authorities in Karenga have launched an investigation into the incident, while Mr. Cox’s remains were transferred to Mulago Hospital City Mortuary for a post-mortem examination.
UWA’s Response and Safety Measures
The Uganda Wildlife Authority extended its condolences to Mr. Cox’s family and friends and reassured the public of its commitment to maintaining high safety standards in wildlife activities.
“This unfortunate incident is a reminder of the inherent risks associated with wildlife interactions,” UWA stated, emphasizing their dedication to regulated hunting practices and the safety of participants.
About Karenga Community Wildlife Area
The Karenga Community Wildlife Area is a conservation zone bordering Kidepo Valley National Park. Managed through a collaboration between local communities, the Karenga District Local Government, and Uganda Wildlife Safaris, it serves as a critical buffer zone for wildlife movement and sustainable utilization. The area is home to various wildlife species, including buffaloes, elephants, antelopes, and big cats, and supports activities such as sport hunting and ecotourism.
The tragic loss of Mr. Frank Stuart Cox underscores the unpredictable nature of wildlife encounters and the importance of stringent safety measures in conservation areas.
