Elephants from Zimbabwe, Botswana Destroy Limpopo Farms

MUSINA

Farmers and residents near Musina, Limpopo say elephants migrating from Zimbabwe and Botswana are destroying livelihoods by trampling crops and damaging property. According to SABC News, the animals have flattened maize fields, broken fences, and forced families to flee their homes in the Niani area.

Local farmer Samuel Nembahe reports constant fear as elephants regularly invade his farm. “Sometimes they come in bulk, especially the ones with calves,” Nembahe told SABC News, explaining that workers abandon fields during invasions.

He expressed concern for workers’ safety: “They must stay here, but their safety is always at risk.”

Residents say elephants have damaged infrastructure along the Limpopo River. Rosina Ndou described fleeing her farm: “Just recently, they (elephants) invaded the farm. We had to run and spent the night on top of the mountain.”

The danger claimed broader impact when a South African National Defence Force member was killed by elephants during border patrol near Madimbo last month (source not provided).

Limpopo provincial authorities acknowledge the yearly pattern. Hitekani Magwedze, spokesperson for the Department of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism stated: “It’s part of the annual migration we experience in Limpopo.”

Magwedze urged caution: “While we appreciate this natural phenomenon, we urge people to exercise caution and stay away from the animals for their own safety.”