16 Aug 2020

Compensation guidelines only cover animals that are classified as dangerous animals under the Wildlife Conservation and National Parks Act of 1992. 

Answering a parliamentary question on behalf of minister of Environment, Natural Resources Conservation and Tourism, the Assistant Minister of Tertiary Education, Research, Science and Technology, Mr Machana Shamukuni said this was informed by the fact that it was difficult for farmers to protect their property against animals classified as dangerous hence their inclusion in the guidelines. 

He noted that cheetahs and wild dogs were included as species of conservation concern (endangered species). 

Mr Shamukuni highlighted that his ministry was currently reviewing Compensation Guidelines of 2013, with the view to increase compensation worthy species and the rates for damage caused by such animals. 

He indicated that the main reason for the review was that there has been a realisation that in addition to the species listed as compensation worthy, there were other species that cause substantive damage. 

Mr Shamukuni said from the Problem Animal Control records of the Department of Wildlife and National Parks, these species included the spotted hyena, the kudu and baboons. 

He further said the review was currently at consultation stage and a final draft was expected to be completed before the end of the year. 

Mr Shamukuni pointed out that due to budgetary constraints, the ministry was currently unable to compensate the market equivalent for damage caused by all wild animals. 

In addition, he said compensation was only made for damage caused by animals that rendered farmers unable to adequately protect themselves or their property. 

Member of Parliament for Bobonong, Mr Taolo Lucas had asked if the minister of Environment, Natural Resources Conservation and Tourism would consider including all wild animals under the compensable species in respect of the danger and damage they cause to farmers, businesses and other entities. 

He also asked if the minister would consider introducing market equivalent compensation for damage caused by wild animals.  Ends