Nkhotakota Liwaladzi Member of Parliament Thokozire Lunji Chanjo has called for a review of some laws governing communities living near wildlife conservation areas, saying increasing cases of animals escaping from protected areas are putting people’s lives and livelihoods at risk.
Chanjo said residents surrounding wildlife reserves such as Nkhotakota Game Reserve and Vwaza Marsh are facing serious challenges as some wild animals stray into communities, destroy crops, attack livestock, and in some cases injure people.
The lawmaker said while the government is making efforts to address the situation, there is a need for stronger measures to protect communities affected by human-wildlife conflicts. She also called for compensation to be provided to people who suffer losses as a result of wildlife-related incidents.
Chanjo emphasized that communities living near conservation areas should not bear the burden alone when wild animals cause damage. He said reviewing existing policies would help create a better balance between wildlife protection and the safety and welfare of surrounding communities.
Responding to the concerns, Minister of Trade and Industry Simon Itaye said government is taking action by working together with communities in affected areas and increasing the number of wildlife officers responsible for monitoring and managing animals.
Itaye said collaboration between authorities and local communities remains essential in finding lasting solutions to challenges arising from interactions between humans and wildlife.
Meanwhile, Mvuma Constituency Member of Parliament in Mzimba District, Aeckim Kumwenda, has also urged government to address the growing conflict between people and wild animals.
Kumwenda said animals such as hyenas, crocodiles, and others continue to threaten communities after escaping from conservation areas, where they attack livestock and pose danger to human life.
He called for urgent interventions to protect both citizens and wildlife.
