Magoye MP Demands Urgent Response as Elephants Invade Communities

Magoye Member of Parliament, Hon. Mweemba Malambo, has sounded the alarm over a growing concern in his constituency following an unexpected invasion of elephants into several communities. The incident, which has caused fear and disruption among residents, is now demanding immediate attention from wildlife authorities.

Speaking in an interview with Byta FM News, Hon. Malambo described the situation as “deeply worrying,” noting that many residents have abandoned their daily routines out of fear of encountering the wild animals.

“People are now scared to leave their homes. Some have stopped going to their farms or sending their children to school. These elephants have become a serious threat, and we cannot afford to wait until someone gets injured or worse,” said the visibly concerned MP.

Crop Fields Damaged, Trees Uprooted

In addition to the fear factor, the elephants have reportedly destroyed several crop fields and brought down trees as they roamed through farmlands and homesteads. For a predominantly farming community, this comes as a devastating blow, especially as residents prepare for harvest or begin replanting.

“Many families in Magoye depend on these crops for survival,” Malambo emphasized. “We are now facing the risk of hunger and financial strain if the situation is not handled quickly.”

Authorities Begin to Track the Herd

Mazabuka District Commissioner, Oliver Mulomba, confirmed that the Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW) has already deployed officers to track and relocate the elephants.

“We are aware of the issue, and wildlife officers are currently tracing the elephants’ trail to safely drive them away from the populated areas,” Mulomba told Byta FM News.

The commissioner encouraged residents to stay calm and avoid provoking the animals while the officers carry out their work.

A Larger Conservation Challenge?

While this may seem like an isolated incident, such elephant invasions are becoming more frequent in parts of Zambia, raising questions about human-wildlife conflict, land encroachment, and conservation strategies. Experts believe habitat loss and seasonal migrations may be pushing elephants closer to human settlements in search of food and water.

Community leaders and conservationists are now urging the government to review buffer zone policies, enhance community sensitization, and invest in early-warning systems to prevent future incidents.