Two days after residents of Mkiwa village in Ikungi District, Singida Region, took the drastic step of blocking a road to urge the government to control destructive wildlife, the Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Ambassador Dr. Pindi Chana, arrived in the district to address local leaders and community members.
Minister Chana’s visit comes in response to escalating concerns over wildlife-related incidents, particularly involving elephants that have damaged homes in the village. Prior to engaging with the villagers, she held a closed-door meeting with local leaders, during which she was briefed on the alarming increase in wildlife encounters in the Singida region.
According to the report presented to the minister, from January to July 2024, there have been a staggering 162 incidents involving dangerous and destructive wildlife. The districts with the highest number of reported cases include Itigi, Manyoni, and Ikungi, reflecting a significant challenge for both residents and local authorities.
Senior Assistant Wildlife Commissioner for the Central Zone, Herman Nyanda, further elaborated that between January 2022 and December 2023, a total of 359 wildlife-related incidents were recorded in Singida. This data underscores the urgent need for intervention, as these encounters pose serious threats to both human safety and property.
During her address to the villagers, Minister Chana acknowledged the distress caused by wildlife interactions and emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing these issues. She assured the community that measures would be taken to enhance wildlife management strategies, including increasing the presence of park rangers and improving communication between residents and wildlife authorities.
Chana urged the community to report any wildlife sightings or incidents promptly, stating that timely information would assist the government in responding effectively. She also encouraged the villagers to participate in local conservation initiatives, fostering a sense of shared responsibility for both wildlife preservation and community safety.
In addition to her discussions on wildlife management, Minister Chana highlighted the importance of sustainable practices to mitigate human-wildlife conflict. She called for collaboration between local communities, government agencies, and conservation organizations to develop long-term solutions that protect both people and wildlife.
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The meeting concluded with a commitment from the community to work alongside the government in implementing effective wildlife management strategies. Residents expressed their gratitude for the minister’s visit and her willingness to listen to their concerns, highlighting the necessity of ongoing dialogue to ensure a safer coexistence with wildlife.
As the situation evolves, local authorities are urged to prioritize the development of comprehensive plans that not only address immediate threats posed by wildlife but also promote sustainable land use and conservation practices. The residents of Mkiwa village, along with others in the region, remain hopeful that the government’s response will lead to significant improvements in their safety and quality of life.