By Bisola Adeyemo
Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (Zimparks) has confirmed the death of six killed by wild animals in different locations within the country as a result of human-wildlife conflict.
This has brought the number of people who have been killed by wildlife since January to 46.
The authority added that they are training people in communities near wildlife habitats about animal behaviour and also discouraging them from moving during the night.
Zimparks public relations manager, Mr Tinashe Farawo, confirmed the deaths.
“This week (last week) alone we have lost at least six lives,” he said. “Four of them were killed by elephants and two by crocodiles. This is a sad week for us. It’s bad and these things continue to happen.
“We have been receiving distress calls from communities almost on a daily basis and its very unfortunate.” Mr Farawo said they were training communities and empowering them with safety measures.
“Mainly, we teach them about animal behaviour and also discourage them from moving at night because most of these animals move at night,” adding that some of the people were being killed during the day.
“In this latest case in Save, a 46-year-old man was coming from church in the company of other congregates. They were travelling in a scotch cart.
“Unfortunately, an elephant bull emerged and attacked him. It is unfortunate we are always on record saying our elephants are overpopulated. Human and animal populations are increasing, but the land does not expand.” Mr Farawo expressed concern that wildlife was also destroying its habitats.