The ongoing issue of elephant roaming in the territory of Manono since 2018 has raised serious concerns and fear among the local population. Recent reports highlight the significant damage caused by these elephants, posing a threat to the safety and development of the inhabitants.
The elephants, whose exact number remains unknown, have been sighted in several villages in the territory of Manono, ravaging palm groves, sugarcane fields, and banana plantations. This has directly impacted the livelihoods of the locals, jeopardizing their means of sustenance. Roger Mwamba, a community member, has expressed concerns about the negative impact of this roaming on local development. Similarly, Dorcas Kalenga, a student at the University of Manono, emphasizes the urgent need for intervention by the Congolese government to curb this persistent threat.Father Moïse Kiluba, coordinator of the Manono Civil Society, points out that these elephants traverse the territory of Malemba Nkulu in Haut-Lomami, originating from the Upemba Park and entering Tanganyika via the Kiluba chieftaincy and Kyofwe sector. This roaming has led to tragic incidents, including loss of human lives and significant material damage. Indeed, two women lost their lives in April 2023 after being trampled by elephants, underscoring the severity of the situation.Félix Mbayo, provincial director of ICCN, assured that a delegation would be sent to Manono soon to address the problem, while condemning the illegal killing of elephants by residents, despite the legal protection of these animals.
The elephant roaming in Manono poses a serious threat to the local population, affecting not only their safety but also their livelihoods. Faced with these challenges, immediate action by the competent authorities, in collaboration with nature conservation agencies, is necessary to resolve this crisis and ensure the safety of the population and the preservation of wildlife.
