Hon. Shine Gwangwaba Calls for Urgent Measures to Address Human-Wildlife Conflict in Kariba

Siabwanda Hollyfield

Kariba - In a passionate plea for government intervention, Member of Parliament Hon. Shine Gwangwaba has called for urgent measures to address the escalating human-wildlife conflict in areas such as Kariba, where residents are facing increasing threats from wildlife.

Speaking on the issue, Hon. Gwangwaba emphasized the need for advanced technologies and scientific strategies to manage human-wildlife interactions. "We need to invest in electronic systems that can detect and warn communities when dangerous animals like elephants or hippos are approaching," he said, highlighting the importance of protecting both people and animals.

The MP also stressed the need for physical barriers, such as strong fences or barricades, to keep wildlife within designated game parks and away from human settlements. He further urged the Ministry of Environment and Wildlife to train officers to study animal behavior, including understanding seasons when animals are aggressive or distinguishing between male and female behavior patterns.

Hon. Gwangwaba's call for action comes amid rising tensions in areas bordering national parks, where local people feel unprotected and under threat from wildlife. He has supported the Wildlife Amendment Bill, which includes provisions for compensation to families affected by wildlife attacks, particularly in cases of death or destruction of crops by animals.

"We need a balanced approach that supports conservation while ensuring the safety and livelihoods of rural citizens," Hon. Gwangwaba said, highlighting the need for urgent action to address the growing elephant population, which he attributed to international sanctions preventing Zimbabwe from selling ivory.

The MP's demands have sparked hope among communities in Kariba, where coexistence with wildlife is both a heritage and a daily challenge. As the government considers the Wildlife Amendment Bill, residents are eager to see concrete measures being taken to protect them from wildlife threats.