By Pretty Chavango.
April 15, 2025
The Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) has reported a significant rise in human-wildlife conflict incidents during the first quarter of 2025, with 18 people killed and 32 others injured across the country.
According to a press statement released today, ZimParks responded to 579 cases of human-wildlife conflict between January and March. The incidents have resulted in substantial livestock losses, with at least 53 cattle and 85 goats killed—an increase from the 18 cattle and 21 goats reported during the same period in 2024.
The Authority also managed to translocate 129 animals back into protected areas and eliminated 158 animals posing threats to communities.
Districts hardest hit by these conflicts include Binga, Hwange, Kariba, Chiredzi, Hurungwe, Nyaminyami, and Mbire. These areas, which share boundaries with national parks, continue to bear the brunt of wildlife incursions.
ZimParks highlighted ongoing efforts to collaborate with communities through awareness campaigns and initiatives aimed at promoting coexistence between humans and wildlife. The agency is working closely with local leaders, rural councils, and traditional authorities to share risk mitigation strategies and encourage reporting of conflict incidents.
“We remain dedicated to fostering a harmonious coexistence between humans and wildlife,” read the statement. “Our teams are tirelessly working to raise awareness about wildlife behaviour and implement effective preventive measures.”
The public is urged to report incidents through ZimParks’ regional animal control contacts (below) or directly to the national spokesperson, Tinashe Farawo, who can be reached at +263772433901 or tfarawo@zimparks.org.zw.
