In response to the severe drought, Namibia has begun culling 700 wild animals in its national parks. This drastic measure aims to alleviate food insecurity by providing meat to vulnerable populations and ensuring better water reserves in the parks.
The decision, which includes targeting species like hippos, buffaloes, and elephants, has sparked controversy. While the government views it as essential, animal protection groups have protested and launched petitions against the culling.
Namibia, which declared a state of emergency last May due to the drought impacting southern Africa, is grappling with acute food shortages affecting approximately 1.4 million people, nearly half of its population.