An aggressive approach to the increasingly worrisome climate crisis. Namibia has started the slaughter of 700 wild animals in national parks in an effort to lessen the effects of this season’s record drought.
Although a portion of the population has expressed dismay at this move, the government views it as a crucial step in reducing the likelihood of food insecurity. The most vulnerable communities are anticipated to receive meat from the hundreds of wild animals that will be culled.
Another rationale from the government is that fewer animals should mean that national parks have more water reserves to see them through these hard times.
Professional hunters are in charge of this operation, which targets a variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, and hippos.
Notwithstanding the government’s explanations, the decision has not been embraced, particularly by the conservatives. Animal protection organizations have launched petitions to have the operation canceled.
Last May, Namibia declared a state of emergency due to the drought affecting all of southern Africa. According to the World Food Programme, about 1.4 million Namibians, nearly half of the population, are currently facing acute food insecurity.
(AP)
