Dumisile Tshuma
LUPANE- Menyezwa Ward 14 faces an escalating human-lion conflict crisis, with confirmed incidents of lions breaching livestock enclosures according to Kusile Rural District Council records.
Since June 2023, lions have scaled fences and penetrated cattle pens near residential areas, resulting in 37 cattle and 58 goats lost based on district veterinary office documentation. “We sleep in shifts guarding pens,” stated Banda village resident Taman Ngwenya. “Our livelihoods are being erased pen by pen.”
Satellite tracking data from the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Authority (ZIMPARKS) shows lion territories have expanded 40% into human settlements since 2023. This follows a 65% decline in antelope populations within Sikumi Forest (verified by FAO 2022-2023 surveys) and disruption of three historical migration corridors due to agricultural expansion.
On August 12, 2023, Kusile’s Problem Animal Control unit euthanized a sub-adult lion near Banda village. “Necropsy revealed severe malnutrition,” confirmed Councilor Thando Ndaba. “This is beyond traditional conflict patterns. We require immediate technical support for physical deterrents.”
ZIMPARKS spokesperson Tinashe Farawo addressed the institutional response: “The government is committed to addressing the Human Wildlife Conflict and ensuring those affected receive necessary support.” He specifically noted: “The fund will enable victims of Human Wildlife Conflict to claim compensation for their losses.”
The District Education Office reports a 22% rise in school absenteeism directly attributed to nighttime guarding duties. Councilor Ndaba emphasized the urgency: “Attacks increased 300% compared to Q1 2022. Without preventative measures, we risk human casualties or illegal retaliation.”
The African Wildlife Foundation has proposed community-led mitigation programs modeled on Kenya and Namibia’s initiatives, while predator-proof fencing solutions remain under formal review by Kusile Rural District Council authorities.
