Human-wildlife conflict increases in Kavango East

Kavango East governor Bonifatius Wakudumo has warned that human-wildlife conflict incidents in the region have increased over the past year. Wakudumo revealed this during his recent State of the Region (Sora) address, where he said that conflict between humans and wildlife such as elephants, crocodiles, hippos and wild dogs has increased compared to the previous year. He said nine people have died as a result of conflict between wildlife and humans. "The Kavango East Region has experienced an increase in human-wildlife conflict involving elephants, crocodiles, hippopotamus, and wild dogs. A number of 12 people sustained injuries, while nine people lost their lives due to attacks by wild animals," Wakudumo said.Losses compensated Wakudumo stated that, due to the reported cases, the government has spent a total of N$180 000 to assist injured victims and N$900 000 to compensate the bereaved families for their losses.Livestock losses as a result of wildlife conflict included 56 cattle, 44 goats, one sheep, one donkey and a pig, representing an increase of 35% compared to the previous period under review. Government forked out N$180 700 to help offset the losses.Elephants and hippos reportedly damaged a total of 210 hectares of crops, which saw an amount of N$210 000 spent to compensate land owners.Wakudumo said in order to address and mitigate human-wildlife conflict incidents, awareness meetings were held at Mukwe, Ndiyona and Mashare, as well as Rundu rural constituencies.Challenges facedNamibian Sun has frequently reported on the challenges surrounding human-wildlife conflict, including the devastating losses and injuries as a result of crocodile attacks.The increased frequency of crocodile attacks is attributed to people resorting to the Kavango River for water due to a lack of access to potable water resources.Namibian Sun also highlighted a recent issue of criminals targeting boreholes and stealing water pumps. Consequently, this forces people to return to the Kavango River for water, putting their lives at risk in the process.- kenya@namibiansun.com

Human-wildlife conflict increases in Kavango East

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-18

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Human-wildlife conflict increases in Kavango East

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-18

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