29 May 2024

A balance between humans and wild animals is crucial for promoting co-existence in areas of tourism.

Speaking at a recent panel discussion during the inaugural Okavango Road Race held in Mohembo, Professor Joseph Mbaiwa, the director of Okavango Research Institute, emphasised the need to minimise the destruction caused by wild animals to humans and their livelihood.

“We have to protect wild animals while also safeguarding human life, as human life is irreplaceable,” he stressed.

Highlighting that tourism areas like Okavango are multibillion-dollar industries rich in natural resources and unique luxurious accommodation facilities attracting both local and international tourists, Professor. Mbaiwa pointed out the pivotal role played by the tourism industry in creating employment for locals and contributing to the country’s economy through taxation.

Mr Thabang Waloka, the North West District commissioner, acknowledged the significance of wild animals while addressing the challenges they pose, such as destroying fields, causing injuries, and fatalities. He called upon stakeholders to collaborate in finding solutions to mitigate human-wildlife conflicts.

Mr Waloka noted the government’s challenges in dealing with such conflicts, citing a lack of resources like manpower and transport, especially in vast areas like Okavango with a high population of wild animals.

“The Okavango for example is vast with high population of wild animals while resources are few,” he said.

Chairing the Okavango Human Wildlife Foundation, Mr Gakemotho Satau highlighted that conservation efforts were resource-intensive, requiring the collective involvement of various stakeholders from private entities, government bodies, and local communities.

Mr Satau shared that their non-profit organisation was committed to assisting people affected by wild animals, particularly those who are permanently injured, and aims to find sustainable solutions to address human-wildlife conflict issues effectively. Ends