A woman from Number 3 Makwika Village in Hwange, Matabeleland North Province, is recovering in Mpilo Central Hospital in Bulawayo after a harrowing encounter with an elephant. Loveness Ncube, believed to be in her 40s, sustained severe injuries, including a broken spine, while collecting charcoal from an old mine dumpsite.
Initially taken to St. Patrick’s Hospital, Ncube’s critical condition necessitated her transfer to the larger facility in Bulawayo. The incident underscores the increasing danger posed by human-wildlife conflicts, a trend exacerbated by climate change and environmental disruption.
Daniel Sithole, director of the Green Shango Environment Trust, highlighted the urgent need for legislative reform to address such conflicts. Sithole, in a post on X (formerly Twitter), lamented the disparity between resources available for wildlife and those accessible to human victims. He emphasized that “The fact that wild animals have an ambulance but human victims do not have one is shocking,” pointing out the pressing need to amend the Parks and Wildlife Management Bill to better support individuals affected by these encounters.
The Women Coalition of Zimbabwe, represented by chapter chairperson for Hwange, Sithembinkosi Ndlovu, voiced concerns over the disproportionate risks faced by women, who are often the primary breadwinners and caretakers in their families. Ndlovu criticized the current situation, noting that while authorities may argue that Ncube was trespassing in a private concession area, this does not negate the need for adequate support and treatment.
“The need to prioritize life is crucial,” Ndlovu asserted. “Ncube is not an employee of Hwange Colliery who could access services at the Colliery Hospital, so it is imperative that her treatment be prioritized.” She also expressed concerns about the ongoing debate over the Parks and Wildlife Management Bill, suggesting that proposed compensation mechanisms may not adequately address the immediate needs of victims.
The underlying issue, as identified by local observers, is the encroachment of human activities into wildlife habitats. Open-pit mining, particularly in areas like Table Mine, has significantly altered traditional wildlife pathways. This environmental disruption has led to increased interactions between animals and local communities, heightening the risk of conflicts.
The situation is a stark reminder of the broader implications of climate change and industrial activities on wildlife behavior and human safety. As the debate continues, the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to manage human-wildlife conflicts and support affected individuals becomes ever more apparent.
In other news – Dolce & Gabbana enters new frontier with luxury dog perfume
Dolce & Gabbana, renowned for its opulent fashion and accessories, is expanding its luxurious repertoire in a truly unique direction. The iconic brand has ventured into the pet care market with the launch of “Fefé,” a high-end perfume designed specifically for dogs. Priced at $100, this fragrance marks a bold new chapter in the realm of pet luxury.
Inspired by the affection Domenico Dolce holds for his own poodle, “Fefé” is more than just a product; it’s a testament to the deep bond between humans and their canine companions. Read More
