Katima Mulilo – The lush flood plains and dense forests of the Zambezi region are testament to Namibia’s rich biodiversity.
But for the community living here, this natural wealth can be a source of fear and tragedy.
In the first five months of 2025, human-world conflict has already claimed four lives and five have been injured.
Hippos, buffaloes and crocodiles are the main perpetrators.
One of the most recent tragic incidents that took place on May 4th, when 56-year-old Oliver Chongga Shimasik was found dead in the Lusu area near Katima Muriro.
Zambezi Regional Police spokesman Kisco Sitali confirmed the incident and provided details that shocked the community.
“Shimasik reportedly left his home in Kakoma village on the morning of May 2nd, attended his field and carried firearms for protection.
When he did not return home, his family began a search, which led to the discovery of his body in the bushes,” Sitali said.
Police officers responding to the scene found Shimasik’s body, suffering a serious injury to his stomach and a broken leg.
A hippo truck was found nearby, strongly suggesting that the man was attacked by a giant animal.
His firearm was recovered at the scene.
“The body was taken to the funeral at Katimamuriro State Hospital after his death. Nearly relatives have been notified,” Sitari added.
The tragedy is part of an increasing list of human and wildlife conflict cases in the area.
Zambezi’s management observer Leeverty Muyoba said the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism (MEFT) is working to protect the community while maintaining conservation efforts.
Today, the most pressing situation includes the pride of lions in the Ngonga, Rizari and Sakona regions of the Jewish Riaboroma constituency.
Meft is closely monitoring this pride, consisting of two adult women and several cubs.
In the aggressive movement, a chasing collar was placed to monitor the movement on one of the women.
“We understand the fear and frustration of the affected communities. Our team has ensured that vulnerable kralls are protected by canvas tents.
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This prevents cows from wandering, prevents the lions from seeing them, and reduces the risk of predation,” Muyo said.
Plans are underway to move Pride to Buwabuwata National Park.
The department’s team from the Department of Science Services was expected to arrive last Thursday and was scheduled for relocation over the weekend.
MEFT continues to urge residents to take precautions.
Community members are encouraged to stay calm during encounters, maintain a safe distance and avoid inducing animals.
Protecting crops and securing livestock with animal resistance fencing in nighttime kralls is one of the recommended measures.
Muyo emphasized the need for a collaborative approach.
“Human and wild conflicts are a common challenge we have to deal with together. Our team is here, but we need community support to report sightings and avoid attempts to harm the animals.
