According to the environment ministry, Namibia intends to kill 723 wild creatures, including 83 elephants, and provide meat to those who are unable to sustain themselves due to the severe drought that is affecting southern Africa.
The slaughter will occur in parks and public spaces where the authorities feel that the number of animals exceeds the amount of grazing pasture and water supplies that are available, according to a statement released on Monday.
The United Nations reports that Namibia last month used up 84% of its food supplies due to the worst drought to hit Southern Africa in decades.
The upcoming months are predicted to bring high levels of food insecurity to over half of Namibia’s population.
Conflicts between people and wildlife are predicted to worsen during this severe drought if government action is not taken, according to the Environment Ministry.
“To this effect, 83 elephants from identified conflict areas will be culled, (and) meat will be allocated to the drought relief programme,” it said.
Along with 30 hippos, 60 buffalo, 50 impalas, 100 blue wildebeest, 300 zebra, and 100 elands, the nation also intends to slaughter these animals.
Over 56,800 kg of meat have been harvested from 117 animals that have already been hunted by government-hired outfits and professional hunters.
“This exercise is necessary and is in line with our constitutional mandate where our natural resources are used for the benefit of Namibian citizens,” the environment ministry said.
Along with 30 hippos, 60 buffalo, 50 impala, 100 blue wildebeest, 300 zebra, and 100 elands, the nation also intends to slaughter these animals.
Over 56,800 kg of meat have been harvested from 117 animals that have already been hunted by government-hired outfits and professional hunters.
“This exercise is necessary and is in line with our constitutional mandate where our natural resources are used for the benefit of Namibian citizens,” the environment ministry said.
Along with 30 hippos, 60 buffalo, 50 impala, 100 blue wildebeest, 300 zebra, and 100 elands, the nation also intends to slaughter these animals.
Over 56,800 kg of meat have been harvested from 117 animals that have already been hunted by government-hired outfits and professional hunters.