Namibia to Kill 300 Wild Animals for Drought Relief: Minister

Windhoek — Namibia will kill 300 wild animals to feed people who are affected by the drought that has left more than 700,000 people without food.

The announcement, made by Environment Minister Pohamba Shifeta Wednesday, comes hard on the heels of new poaching figures of 162 poached rhinos and 80 elephants from 2015 until now.

Shifeta said the plan to kill wild animals is the national parks’ contribution to the drought relief efforts.

Although Shifeta said they have earmarked 300 animals, his ministry will consult with the Office of the Prime Minister on the final number.

The minister said the animals that have been earmarked are from three game parks owned by the government, which are finding it difficult to cope with the drought.

Small game, mostly gemsbok and springbok, Shifeta explained, will be killed.

“We cannot allow our people to go hungry while our animals are also dying due to the drought conditions,” the minister said, adding that the move is part of harvesting sustainability and controlling animal population in the country.

This is not the first time Namibia has culled animals to feed drought-stricken communities after more than 500 were killed in 2013. (PNA/Xinhua) RMA/CVL/RSM