Takudzwa Changadeya
VICTORIA FALLS residents have called for a swift solution to human-wildlife conflict as wildlife, including buffaloes, elephants, hyenas, and lions, continue to stray into their communities.
Recently, the escalating problem took a deadly turn when a motorist’s car was severely damaged in a collision with a buffalo.
Speaking about the challenge, Xolisani Ndebele, a local resident, said, “We are living in constant fear. You can’t even walk freely in your own neighbourhood. These animals don’t belong in our streets; something needs to be done urgently.”
Another resident, Reuben Ndlovu, shared similar concerns.
“Last month, my children couldn’t go to school for days because there were elephants roaming nearby. We feel abandoned. While we love our wildlife, our safety must come first.”
The Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (Zimparks) has come under scrutiny for its approach to managing problematic wildlife.
Responding to criticisms about wildlife culling during a recent interview with VictoriaFallsLive, Tinashe Farawo, the spokesperson for Zimparks, defended the organization’s practices, arguing that their actions prioritise human safety.
“When human life is under threat, we are left with no option but to eliminate the animals,” Farawo said.
The increasing encroachment of wildlife into residential areas has sparked a heated debate about the balance between conservation efforts and community safety.
