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Mozambique’s Battle with Wildlife

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Author Alana Theron, BSc in Biodiversity and Ecology

Closeup View of a Nile Crocodile in Captivity
Closeup View of a Nile Crocodile in Captivity. Taking a Sunbath. Image by mahmoodd79@gmail.com via Depositphotos.

In 2024, Tete province in central Mozambique experienced a rise in deadly human-wildlife conflicts. At least 13 people were killed, and seven more went missing in suspected animal attacks. Crocodiles, particularly in Cahora Bassa district, were responsible for most of these tragedies, highlighting the ongoing struggle between human settlements and nature.

The Growing Risk of Animal Attacks

Nile crocodile.
Nile crocodile. Image by Leigh Bedford, CC BY 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Crocodiles and hippos pose a significant danger to local communities. Many victims were attacked while fishing or collecting water from rivers. With human expansion encroaching on wildlife habitats, these encounters have become more frequent and deadly. The missing individuals could also have fallen victim to similar attacks, leaving families in fear and uncertainty.

Why These Attacks Are Increasing

Nile Crocodile
Nile Crocodile. Image by Charles J. Sharp, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

As Mozambique’s population grows, people move into areas previously dominated by wildlife. Farming, fishing, and daily activities bring them closer to dangerous animals. Climate change and habitat destruction also push wildlife toward human settlements, increasing the likelihood of conflict.

The Impact on Local Communities

Cuban Crocodile
Cuban Crocodile. Image by Yelles, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

Fear of attacks has changed daily life in Tete province. Many villagers avoid rivers, limiting their access to essential water sources. Some families have lost multiple loved ones, and medical facilities remain scarce for those who survive attacks. The emotional and economic toll of these incidents is devastating.

Possible Solutions to Reduce Conflicts

Saltwater Crocodile (Crocodylus porosus), Kakadu National Park, Northern Territory, NT, Australia. Image via Depositphotos.

Authorities are working to educate communities on safety measures and increase monitoring of high-risk areas. Experts suggest alternative water sources, fencing off certain zones, and relocating problem animals to reduce attacks. However, resources for such initiatives remain limited.

The Challenge of Coexistence

Crocodile. Image via Depositphotos.

Human-wildlife conflict in Mozambique will not disappear overnight. Balancing conservation with human safety is crucial. Sustainable solutions, community involvement, and government support are necessary to protect both lives and the country’s rich biodiversity. Finding harmony between humans and wildlife is the only path forward.

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