Human-wildlife clashes escalate

Ivan Zhakata

Herald Correspondent

ZIMBABWE is witnessing a surge in human-wildlife conflict, with 18 people killed and 32 injured between January and March 2025.

The Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) confirmed that the first quarter of the year saw a dramatic increase in reported cases, with 579 incidents logged nationwide—a rise that reflects the growing tension between expanding human settlements and shrinking wildlife habitats.

In a statement, ZimParks spokesperson Mr Tinashe Farawo expressed grave concern over the spike in encounters and called it a national crisis that demands urgent attention.

“We are saddened to report the loss of life and injuries caused by wild animals,” said Mr Farawo.

“Communities are bearing the brunt of this ongoing conflict, and we are doing everything within our capacity to manage the situation.”

In addition to the human toll, rural communities have suffered significant losses to their livestock.

At least 53 cattle and 85 goats were killed in wildlife attacks during the same period—an alarming jump from 18 cattle and 21 goats lost in early 2024.

ZimParks teams responded to all reported cases, taking decisive action by translocating 129 wild animals back into protected areas and eliminating 158 that posed immediate threats to human life.

The hardest-hit districts include Binga, Hwange, Kariba, Chiredzi, Hurungwe, Nyaminyami and Mbire, where communities frequently live on the edge of protected areas and game reserves.

To mitigate future incidents, ZimParks is intensifying its community outreach and education efforts, particularly in high-risk zones.

“We are actively engaging communities to raise awareness about wildlife behavior and to share practical strategies for coexisting safely,” Mr Farawo said.

“We urge residents to report all incidents immediately to our Problem Animal Control teams or through local leadership structures.”

As human populations grow and climate shifts drive wildlife closer to populated areas in search of food and water, ZimParks acknowledges that long-term solutions will require deeper collaboration with communities, policymakers and conservation partners.

“The safety of our people and the protection of our wildlife must go hand in hand,” said Mr Farawo.

“Only through cooperation can we create sustainable solutions that protect both human lives and Zimbabwe’s rich biodiversity.”

ZimParks reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding communities while promoting harmony between humans and wildlife, despite the complex and evolving challenges on the ground.