By Lylie Happiness
Nakabolelwa, Aug. 9 – The inhabitants of Nakabolelwa, a community located over 50 kilometres east of Katima Mulilo in the flood plains of Kabbe South Constituency, Zambezi region, express growing dissatisfaction with the escalating presence of problematic wild animals. Crocodiles, elephants, and lions from the neighbouring Chobe National Park in Botswana continue to ravage crops and livestock, prompting calls for action.
Situated adjacent to the wildlife-rich Chobe National Park, separated only by the Chobe River, Nakabolelwa residents have encountered mounting challenges due to the surging populations of these animals. The community suggests enhanced efforts to harvest problem animals, particularly crocodiles and elephants, to mitigate the increasing instances of human-wildlife conflict. Currently, the crocodile hunting quota stands at a mere two, a figure residents urge the government to reconsider.
To address the conflict, proposed measures include erecting crocodile fences, providing additional boreholes and water troughs, and reevaluating compensation fees. Residents emphasize that livestock losses far exceed the compensation amounts set by the government. Many farmers have yet to receive compensation for their losses.
Officials from the Ministry of Environment, Forestry, and Tourism reported that in the past financial year, 188 affected residents received total compensation of over N$60,000. They reassure the community that pending claims will be addressed in the upcoming year.
In response to the mounting concerns, the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Natural Resources has initiated public hearings on human-wildlife conflict in the Zambezi region. This move follows the recent tabling of a Motion in the National Assembly, referred to the committee for further examination. – Namibia Daily News
