Southern Africa is culling elephants and other wildlife to feed hungry populations amid the worst drought in over a century. This move aims to tackle food insecurity caused by the ongoing drought. Namibia is culling over 700 elephants, hippos, zebras, and other animals from national parks to support starving communities in drought-stricken regions, the Ministry of Environment, Forestry, and Tourism stated.
Zimbabwe and Namibia, among other southern African nations, are grappling with severe drought linked to El Niño, a natural climate event resulting in minimal rainfall since early this year. These countries face increasing drought risks due to climate change. At least 31 people have died in Zimbabwe this year from human-wildlife conflicts, local media reported.
Last month, Zimbabwe announced plans to cull 200 elephants to distribute their meat to needy communities. The Namibian government approved the culling of 723 animals, including 83 elephants, 30 hippos, 60 buffaloes, 50 impalas, 300 zebras, and 100 elands. Zimbabwe’s Environment Minister, Sithembiso Nyoni, informed Parliament that she had approved the culling program.
🚨🇧🇼 President Masisi on Botswana’s elephant crisis: Amid the worst drought in 50 years, 150,000 elephants threaten local resources. Despite offering 20,000 to Germany, there was no response. He calls for sustainable hunting to support conservation & communities. 🐘🌍 pic.twitter.com/3PIdN1Ftho
— CIC (@CICwildlife) October 8, 2024
“Zimbabwe has more elephants than we need, more than our forestry can accommodate,” Nyoni stated. Tinashe Farawo, a spokesperson for the Zimbabwe National Parks and Wildlife Management Authority, mentioned that permits would be issued to communities facing shortages to hunt elephants, and the agency would also cull some of the 200 animals allocated. “We will start culling as soon as we have finished issuing out permits,” Farawo noted.
Elephants will be sourced from areas where the population has become unsustainable, according to Farawo. Hunting will occur in regions like Hwange National Park in the arid west, where competition for food and water between humans and wildlife has intensified due to rising temperatures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Why are parts of southern Africa culling elephants and other wildlife?
To feed starving populations amid a severe drought.
Which countries in southern Africa are affected by the severe drought?
Zimbabwe and Namibia are among the affected countries.
How many animals is Namibia culling to address food insecurity?
Namibia is culling 723 animals, including 83 elephants and 300 zebras.
What natural phenomenon is contributing to the drought in southern Africa?
El Niño is contributing to the minimal rainfall in the region.
How is Zimbabwe addressing the conflict between humans and wildlife?
Zimbabwe is issuing permits to hunt elephants and culling 200 animals.
