Nesigwe villagers in Nkayi, Matabeleland North Province have raised calls of despondency after losing livestock to hyena raids. According to villagers, the hyenas are moving in cackles of up to ten preying on livestock which include; cattle, donkeys, goats and sheep.
According to Thembani Ncube, the Habakkuk Trust Community Advocacy Action Team Convener, the raids which occur during the night have resulted in massive livestock losses. ‘’ In the month of August an estimated 20 households lost cattle, donkeys and goats to hyenas’’, said Mr. Ncube. Villagers have since approached the Local Authority for assistance while at the same time taking measures to reduce livestock losses.
The measures include fortifying pens and encouraging livestock farmers to ensure that their animals are penned before nightfall.
Hyenas gunned down by PAC in Bulilima ward 10
Livestock losses resulting from the raids are threatening to plunge villagers into deep – vulnerability as they rely on livestock for draught power and other economic needs.
Hyenas are a major source of Human Wildlife Conflict in most parts of Matabeleland North and South Provinces. In November 2022, the Government approved the establishment of the Human-Wildlife Conflict Relief Fund victims due to the increased number of conflicts and fight for limited resources between humans and wildlife.
