Zaka on High Alert: Elephants Roaming Ward 24 Spark Safety Fears

ZAKA — Residents in Ward 24 under Chief Bota have been urged to exercise extreme caution following the sighting of at least two elephants roaming the Charuka and Chipfuti areas early Tuesday morning, in a development that has heightened fears over rising human-wildlife conflict in rural Zimbabwe. The sightings, confirmed by local authorities, prompted an urgent response from the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks), with rangers deployed to monitor the animals and prevent potential harm to residents.

Ward 24 Councillor Zivanai Zvada said the elephants were first spotted around 3:00 AM in the Chipfuti area before moving towards Charuka by 5:00 AM.

“Many suspect they could be hiding near Charuka Dam, where there is plenty of vegetation for camouflage,” Zvada said.

Villagers have since reported fresh dung and footprints, suggesting the animals remain in the vicinity.

Zaka South legislator Clemence Chiduwa confirmed that he alerted ZimParks immediately after receiving reports from the community. Rangers are expected to track the elephants and, if necessary, guide them back to protected wildlife areas. Wildlife experts say elephants can travel long distances in search of food and water, especially during dry periods, increasing the likelihood of encounters with humans.

Local leaders have issued strict safety guidelines to minimise risk:

• Avoid unnecessary movement, particularly at night

• Keep livestock away from dense bush and water sources

• Do not attempt to approach or provoke the animals

“These animals can be unpredictable. Any form of provocation can result in fatal consequences,” Zvada warned.

The incident comes amid growing concern over human-wildlife conflict in Zimbabwe, particularly in rural districts bordering wildlife corridors. According to ZimParks, dozens of lives were lost in 2025 due to encounters with wild animals, with elephants accounting for a significant proportion of the fatalities. Environmental analyst Farai Mupfumi said increasing pressure on natural resources is driving wildlife closer to human settlements.

“Climate change, habitat loss and population pressures are forcing animals out of protected areas. Communities like Zaka are now on the frontline of this crisis,” he said.

Zimbabwe recently launched the Elephant Management Plan (2026–2035), aimed at addressing conflict hotspots through improved monitoring systems, community awareness, and sustainable wildlife management strategies. Authorities say community cooperation remains critical in preventing further incidents. As the situation unfolds, residents in Ward 24 have been urged to remain vigilant and report any sightings to authorities immediately.

elephants spotted Zaka Ward 24