The report highlighted outdated policies as a contributing factor to the growing crisis in rural areas.
Attacks by elephants, lions, and crocodiles have surged, resulting in more human fatalities, extensive crop damage, and significant livestock losses. The report, prepared by the legislature’s standing committee on natural resources, warned that neighboring countries such as Angola, Zambia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe are facing similar challenges.
“Wildlife is one of the remaining assets of the natural world with considerable potential to benefit rural communities,” it noted. “However, one of the greatest threats to this wildlife arises from human-wildlife conflict.”
Many farmers have voiced frustration over the government's compensation program, which they argue fails to adequately cover losses. Families of crocodile attack victims have particularly struggled, with some receiving no compensation due to the inability to recover the remains of their loved ones.
Some communities have resorted to killing problem animals without waiting for official intervention. The report cautioned that without effective intervention, the escalating conflict could undermine Namibia’s tourism sector and tarnish its image as a top wildlife destination.
The parliamentary committee has called for urgent reforms, including revising conservation policies, expanding compensation programs, and considering the relocation or culling of problematic animals. Other recommendations include the construction of electrified fences to prevent wildlife encroachment and the drilling of additional boreholes to improve water access.