Namibia to slaughter elephants and zebras due to drought

Namibia plans to cull more than 700 animals, including elephants and hippos, to provide meat for people facing severe food insecurity during the country’s worst drought in a century.

Victoria Bisset reports for The Washington Post.

In short:

• Namibia will cull 83 elephants, 30 hippos and other animals, distributing the meat to drought-stricken communities.
• The drought, caused by El Niño, has left nearly half of Namibia’s population facing acute food insecurity.
• The cull also aims to reduce human-wildlife conflict and alleviate pressure on natural resources.

Key quote:

“We are happy that we can assist the country in this very difficult time and when [it’s] absolutely needed.”

— Namibia's Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism

Why this matters:

The drought in Namibia is a stark example of how climate change exacerbates natural disasters, leading to extreme measures like wildlife culls to prevent human starvation and manage ecosystems.

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• Climate change and its impact on Africa's public health