Stray Elephant Flattens Home Sparks Panic in Hwange
Hwange District continues to grapple with worsening human-wildlife conflict as elephant populations surge beyond manageable levels.
In the early hours of Monday, an elderly woman, Gogo Ndlovu, of Chidobe Village, narrowly escaped injury when a stray elephant tore down her kitchen hut while her family slept.
The incident has intensified calls for urgent intervention to prevent further destruction.
Community leaders have raised concerns about the increasing presence of elephants in residential areas, which is disrupting daily life and endangering residents.
“The situation is alarming—on April 27, an elephant was hit by a vehicle and now we have this incident. Our community is facing serious challenges,” said Headman Skinner Ndlovu.
Ward 2 Councillor Bonginkosi Moyo added, “The increasing elephant movements have left residents living in fear. The accident on April 27 and the destruction of Gogo’s homestead show that the situation is worsening.
“We need immediate action to protect lives and property.”
Some officials are considering controlled population management, including culling, as a potential solution.
Nxolelani Ncube, the Campfire Manager for Hwange Rural District Council, confirmed a significant rise in elephant movements within communities.
“Zimbabwe’s elephant population has surged to over 85,000, far exceeding the national carrying capacity of 45,000, leading to a rise in accidents and destruction,” he said.
ZBC News reports that Zimbabwe’s elephant crisis stems largely from international wildlife trade restrictions, which have led to uncontrolled population growth.
Residents say the rising number of elephants has resulted in frequent human-wildlife conflicts, posing a threat to their safety. Communities are urging the government to take swift action before more lives and properties are affected.
