Namibia To Kill 700 Animals Including Elephants To Feed People Amid Drought Crisis 

Namibia is reportedly planning to kill hundreds of animals, including elephants, to feed people affected by the severe drought. The Southern African country is making this move as it grapples with its worst drought in 100 years. Nearly half of Namibia's population is reportedly expected to experience high levels of food insecurity in the coming months.

Namibia's Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism said in a statement that the animals set to be culled include 83 elephants, 30 hippos, 60 buffalo, 50 impala, 100 blue wildebeest, and 300 zebras. Reuters, citing the ministry's statement, reported that the cull will take place in parks and communal areas where authorities believe animal numbers exceed available grazing land and water supplies.

The environment ministry said that with the latest decision, the country is also aiming to reduce the potential for conflicts between elephants and humans, which can surge during drought when animals’ search for water and vegetation can bring them into contact with people. "This exercise in necessary and is in line with our constitutional mandate where our natural resources are used for the benefit of Namibian citizens," added the ministry in the statement.

Southern Africa is witnessing its most severe drought in decades. Reports indicate that Namibia, Zimbabwe, Malawi, and Zambia have declared drought emergencies. The lack of rain and extreme heat have caused crops to wither and hunger levels to rise in the region. Meanwhile, the United Nations said the current drought is contributing to cases of acute malnutrition.