Online Reporter
Milton Mashasha in Matabeleland South
GOHOLE Villagers in Ward 17, Manama, are barricading their doors at night after hyenas invaded their homesteads on two consecutive nights, killing livestock and leaving families terrified.
The attacks, which occurred on 15 and 16 July, saw the predators kill and eat goats, chickens, puppies and a guinea fowl. In a bizarre twist, they also chewed residents’ Crocs-style sandals that had been left outside.
Villagers shared disturbing images of slain livestock, that cannot be published.
Speaking to B-Metro, Gohole Village head Mr Rorisang Nare said he was in Bulawayo when the attacks happened but was shocked by the reports.
“I have heard about the damage caused by the hyenas. It is shocking that they are entering people’s homesteads while families are asleep, killing chickens by cutting off their heads, attacking goats, puppies and even chewing shoes. I have always known hyenas to avoid people, so this is very unusual,” he said.
Khongongo area headwoman Sandisiwe Nkomo said the attacks had traumatised villagers.
“We are deeply disturbed. The hyenas are entering homesteads, fighting dogs, killing livestock and even chewing shoes. Last month, a man from Halisupi was bitten by a hyena, so we do not know whether it is the same animal or several. We appeal to Zimparks to remove them because our lives and livestock are at risk,” she said.
Admire Dube, a villager, said he lost five puppies.
“The hyenas even fight dogs. They are fearless and came back the following night. People’s lives are now in danger and we need urgent help,” he said.
Regina Sibanda said one of the hyenas killed a goat before wandering around her brightly lit yard.
“It came through the gate, walked around the yard and even chewed a child’s sandals left outside the door. We have never seen anything like this,” she said. Sikhangele Moyo, lost chickens and a guinea fowl.
“We are now living in fear. Many of us are alone with our children while our husbands are away at work. We are even afraid to walk outside in the evenings,” she said.
Human-wildlife conflict in Matabeleland South has been increasing. Last month, a man from Halisupi was bitten by a hyena.
Gohole villagers say they are sleeping in groups, keeping fires burning and praying Zimparks responds before the next attack turns fatal.
