Rudo Mandiro
In a significant step towards mitigating human-wildlife conflict, the Government of Zimbabwe, in collaboration with Wild Africa and Save the Elephants, today launched innovative WhatsApp Conflict Chatbot.
This innovative initiative aims to provide sustainable strategies and solutions for communities facing challenges related to human-wildlife conflicts.
The toolbox is designed to equip local communities with essential tools and knowledge to address the complexities of living alongside wildlife.
The WhatsApp Conflict Chatbot serves as a vital resource for real-time information and support.
Speaking during the launch Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority Director General Mr. Fulton Magwanya emphasized the importance of dialogue in finding innovative solutions to the challenges posed by human-wildlife interactions.
Dr Mangwanya said there is an urgent need for innovative solutions and collaborative efforts of addressing human-wildlife conflict.
“A total of 50 people were killed by wild animals in 2023 compared to 67 people who were killed by wild animals in 2022. This year a total of 31 deaths have been recorded.
“Human, crop and livestock destruction not only reduces incomes but also affects livelihoods and our people’s abilities to feed their families,” he said.
Wild Africa chief executive officer Peter Knights commended Zimbabwe for continuing formulating measures that addresses human-wildlife conflicts.
“Africa and Zimbabwe can show the rest of the world the best ways of coexistence. It’s about survival, these are essential issues we need to address today.
“Zimbabwe is facing problems here with drought and large animals. So I would love to see Zimbabwe at the forefront globally of promoting solutions to these issues and show the world a sustainable way of coexisting with animals,” he said.
“Let this dialogue be the charge for the exchange of innovative solutions to mitigate and address human-wildlife conflict,” he said.
“The Government will continue to partner with stakeholders with the need for innovative solutions to mitigate human-wildlife conflict.
Coexistence Director at Save the Elephants Dr Lucy King, elaborated on the toolbox’s digital integration into a WhatsApp platform, which will provide the community with effective coexistence strategies
“The launch of the Toolbox marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to foster coexistence between humans and wildlife. With the support of international organizations like Save the Elephants, which is headquartered in Nairobi, the initiative aims to raise funds and awareness for community-driven solutions.
Southern Africa Director of Wildlife Africa Guy Jennings said, “as Wild Africa we are committed to making a difference in saving the Elephants through advice actions and tools to reduce conflict. ”
“We will continue to join hands with the Government in areas where wildlife coexistence with people. It is our hope this digital technology launched today will go a long way in helping the communities to live safely with elephants.”
