Windhoek, Namibia – In a bold move to combat the severe drought plaguing Namibia, the government has announced the distribution of assorted game meat across the country to alleviate the growing hunger crisis. This measure comes as many citizens face food insecurity due to the prolonged drought, which has left much of the population struggling.
The Namibian Ministry of Environment, Forestry, and Tourism revealed that a total of 723 animals, including elands, wildebeests, impalas, and buffalos, will be contributed to the drought relief program. The animals will be sourced from national parks and communal areas where game populations are sustainable.
In an official statement, the Ministry said, “The Ministry with Cabinet approval is contributing game meat to support the drought relief programme by the government. The Ministry will contribute 723 animals comprising 30 hippos, 60 buffalos, 50 impalas, 100 blue wildebeests, 300 zebras, 83 elephants, and 100 elands.”
This initiative is not only intended to provide immediate food relief but also to mitigate the growing conflict between humans and wildlife. As the drought worsens, animals are increasingly venturing outside their reserves in search of water and food, raising the risk of human-animal conflicts.
“To this effect, 83 elephants from identified conflict areas will be culled; meat will be allocated to the drought relief program under the Office of the Prime Minister,” the statement added.
The United Nations has recently highlighted the severity of the situation, noting that 84 percent of Namibia’s food reserves are already depleted. Nearly half of the population is expected to face high levels of food insecurity between July and September. In response, the UN’s acting Emergency Relief Coordinator, Joyce Msuya, allocated $3 million from the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) to support the Namibian government’s efforts to address the crisis.
This distribution of game meat is a crucial step in the country’s ongoing efforts to combat the devastating effects of the drought and ensure the survival of its citizens.