Minister Chana: Government Will Protect Citizens from Aggressive Wildlife

The Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Hon. Ambassador Dr. Pindi Chana (MP), has reaffirmed the government's commitment to safeguarding citizens from aggressive and destructive wildlife, particularly elephants. She emphasized that ensuring public safety is a top priority for the government.

Minister Chana made this statement on September 6, 2024, during a meeting with councilors from the Meatu District Council in Simiyu Region. The meeting took place at the Pius Msekwa Small Hall in the Parliament building in Dodoma.

“It is time to protect our citizens and continue taking necessary precautions, especially in areas that are wildlife corridors. I have instructed our institutions to install signs to alert residents to avoid these areas,” said Minister Chana.

She elaborated on the Ministry's ongoing efforts to address the challenges posed by aggressive wildlife. "We are implementing various strategies, including educating the public on planting crops that are less attractive to elephants, fitting collars on elephants to track their movements, and establishing wildlife ranger posts to enhance protection,” she added.

In appreciation, Meatu MP, Hon. Leah Komanya, expressed gratitude to the Ministry for its efforts in conservation and tackling the elephant problem in Meatu District. "We are thankful for the support provided, including a vehicle, four motorcycles, and the construction of a wildlife ranger post," said MP Komanya.

Earlier in the session, Councilor Basu Kayungilo of Mwandoya Ward reported the significant damage caused by aggressive wildlife to residents living near the Maswa Game Reserve and the Makao Wildlife Management Area. 

Councilor Kayungilo noted, "The council has decided to form a team to meet with the Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism to discuss solutions, including compensation processes and the distribution of the 25% compensation allocated for villages adjacent to the reserve."

The meeting was attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism responsible for wildlife management.