Authorities in the Okavango region have expressed growing concern over the rising number of illegal hunting incidents which they say continues to threaten the survival of wildlife and the balance of ecosystems in the area.
The police have appealed to members of the public to work closely with law enforcement agencies in combating this problem, which has now become a serious issue in most parts of the Okavango, especially within protected wildlife zones.
Constable Peter Ramakoloi of the Gumare Police Station said during a sustainable wildlife management workshop held in Gumare on Tuesday that police officers are continuously receiving reports of animals being unlawfully killed in game reserves. He explained that poachers usually target animals for different reasons, some for bush meat and others for valuable body parts such as elephant tusks, horns, or animal skins, which are often smuggled to foreign markets.
According to Constable Ramakoloi, poaching without proper hunting permits has become increasingly common within the NG25 and NG26 wildlife management areas, both of which are recognized for their rich variety of animal species. He said smaller species such as the reedbuck are frequently hunted for food, while larger animals like elephants, lions, and antelopes are killed for trade or trophies. “These illegal activities not only endanger wildlife but also undermine our efforts to promote conservation and sustainable tourism in the Okavango,” he said.
He further warned that it is a criminal offence to be found in possession of bush meat or any suspicious wildlife products. Ramakoloi revealed that the police have also been monitoring cases of illegal fishing in protected waters, where large quantities of fish are harvested, dried, and later sold both locally and internationally. He said such practices are damaging the environment and depleting fish stocks that communities depend on for livelihood.
Meanwhile, Kgosi Kenaletsala Fish of Nokaneng village has called on traditional leaders across the region to unite in the fight against wildlife crime. He said chiefs have long been custodians of natural resources and should continue playing a central role in preserving wildlife and vegetation for the benefit of future generations. “Our natural heritage defines who we are as a people, and protecting it is a shared responsibility,” said Kgosi Fish.
Constable Ramakoloi concluded by urging residents to report any suspicious activities, stressing that cooperation between communities, traditional leaders, and the police is the only way to curb poaching and safeguard the country’s wildlife for sustainable use and future tourism development.
