The Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism has recorded five human fatalities and six injuries due to crocodile attacks in the Kavango West and Kavango East regions between January 2024 and February 2025.
Ministry spokesperson Romeo Muyunda said on Sunday that the ministry has paid N$680 000 to the victims of human-crocodile conflict cases since last year.
The ministry pays N$100 000 to the families of deceased victims, N$0 000 for victims left with disabilities, and N$15 000 for lost body parts, he said.
He further said Ndonga Linene, Katondo, Kayova and Mayara are high-risk areas for crocodile attacks, adding that various activities such as bathing, fishing and swimming near riverbanks lead to increased attacks.
The ministry has therefore implemented several measures to reduce human-wildlife conflict, particularly in high-risk areas, including raising awareness among communities and actively engaging them in conflict mitigation efforts.
Additionally, boreholes have been drilled to provide alternative water sources and reduce competition with wildlife for access to water.
“The government erected crocodile protective enclosures in several villages in the areas of Tjeye, Mupapama, Kashira and Shadikongoro, which are located near Popa Falls, to help safeguard communities by providing safer access to water sources and reducing the risk of crocodile attacks,” said Muyunda.
He urged people living near crocodile-infested rivers to take the necessary precautions to avoid potential attacks.
“Avoid fetching water, fishing or bathing near riverbanks, especially at night when crocodiles are most active. Always travel in groups near the river and report any crocodile sightings to local authorities. Awareness and vigilance can help prevent tragic incidents, so let us prioritise safety,” he urged.
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