The Namibian government has initiated a cull of over 700 wildlife due to a severe drought, with 160 animals already culled, according to the environment ministry. The cull aims to reduce strain on grazing and water resources while providing meat for drought-affected communities.
This cull, conducted by professional hunters, targets various species including 30 hippos, 60 buffalos, 50 impalas, 83 elephants, 100 blue wildebeest, 100 elands, and 300 zebras, primarily within national parks.
So far, 157 animals have been culled, delivering 56,875 kilograms of meat. The ministry emphasizes that the operation aims to minimize trauma while complying with international bans on ivory sales, with elephant tusks being stored in government warehouses.
The decision has sparked criticism from PETA and other conservation groups, who argue that the cull is cruel, short-sighted, and could disrupt ecosystems. They have called for the Namibian government to reconsider its actions.
Critics also suggest the cull may be politically motivated, pointing to upcoming elections and questioning whether proper environmental assessments were conducted. The World Wildlife Fund notes that Africa’s elephant population is vulnerable, with some species facing extinction.
