Minister of Environment, Forestry and Tourism Indileni Daniel described as saddening an incident in which an elephant bull was put down in Onawa Village in the Omusati Region. 

This happened after countless efforts were made to guide the animal back to Etosha National Park following a recent wildfire that spread into the north-central regions.

The minister said that despite these interventions, the elephant slowly made its way to densely populated areas, posing a threat to rural agriculture and human life. 

She stated that due to escalating panic, the ministry was left with no alternative but to act decisively to prevent potential harm and further damage to infrastructure.

"This incident is a tragic reminder of the complex challenges we face in managing human-wildlife conflict, particularly during times of environmental crisis. The Ministry deeply regrets the loss of this majestic animal and acknowledges the emotional impact on affected communities."

Daniel says that the ministry will continue to work with communities to strengthen safety measures, promote conservation ethics and foster public awareness around human-wildlife interaction.

However, some MPs raised concerns about the matter as well as the fire related to it.

Swanu MP Evilastus Kaaronda questioned whether "there was a professional team dispatched to deal with this. Because I remember honourable Kapofi saying soldiers are not trained to put out fires. Were they part of those who had to put this thing down?"

LPM MP Eneas Emvula said, "What happened to tranquilising animals that, for example, have escaped from captivity to bring them back safely? Is it a matter of cost or simply that we do not have the necessary tools?"

Swapo MP Rodrick Likando gave an example of the Zambezi Region, where residents "also faced a similar situation around the villages, even destroying crops, but we have few instances where these elephants were killed. Many of them will just be guided away from these communities, so why is this intervention not being applied there?"

The minister responded that it is not a regular occurrence for an animal to be put down, but community members were displaying hostile behaviour, provoking the elephant to a point where it could potentially act out of rage and cause harm.

She said that, although similar incidents do occur in the Zambezi Region, residents have demonstrated a balanced relationship with wildlife, making it easier to guide the animals back to their habitat.

Daniel further stated that the ministry strongly condemns the circulation of graphic images of the elephant on social media, as it undermines the dignity of wildlife as well as coexisting communities.