FATAL HUMAN WILDLIFE CONFLICT

The Ministry of Tourism, through the Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW), regrets to confirm a fatal human-wildlife conflict incident involving an African elephant in Mukuni Chiefdom,Siamapa Village, in Livingstone District.


The incident occurred between 22:00 hours and 23:00 hours on the night of 24th April 2026. The deceased has been identified as Ms. Lozia Ngawaka, aged 54, a resident of Siamapa Village.


Preliminary reports indicate that the victim, in the company of her husband, was walking from Mukuni Palace towards Siamapa Village when they encountered a roaming elephant within a known wildlife movement corridor. The elephant is believed to have charged during the encounter, resulting in the fatality. The husband survived the incident.


The Department of National Parks and Wildlife has since dispatched a field team to the area to verify details, assess the situation on the ground and ensure the safety of surrounding communities. The remains of the deceased have been collected and deposited at Batoka Mortuary pending burial arrangements.


Initial assessments suggest that the incident may have been a defensive reaction by the animal, possibly triggered by close proximity and reduced visibility during night hours, which are typically periods of increased elephant activity.


The Ministry extends its deepest condolences to the bereaved family and the community of Siamapa Village during this difficult time.


The Ministry further urges members of the public, particularly those living in or near wildlife corridors, to exercise heightened caution. Movement during late hours in such areas should be avoided, as it significantly increases the risk of encounters with wild animals.


In response to the incident, the Ministry, through DNPW, is intensifying community sensitization programmes, strengthening early warning systems and promoting the use of appropriate deterrent measures in high-risk areas.


Issued by 


Nelly Banda 

Principal Public Relations Officer

Ministry of Tourism 



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