Botswana authorises killing of 23 elephants for independence celebration feasts
The Botswana government has approved the slaughter of 23 elephants so their meat can be served at events marking the country’s 60th year of independence.
In honor of the 60th anniversary of its independence from Britain, Botswana will host public feasts that include meat from 23 elephants slated for culling. The environmental and tourism ministry said the meat will be offered free of charge as part of traditional holiday meals. The policy has sparked backlash from conservationists and portions of the public, who argue it undermines the country’s wildlife protection record.
Elephant Protection Society president Oaitse Nawa said that the animals need stronger safeguards and that the cull could convey a permissive message about killing wildlife. Critics also highlighted health concerns over wild-meat consumption amid a current outbreak of a contagious oral and nail disease. Botswana’s elephant population exceeds 130,000, and debates over managing the species have persisted for years, with officials citing crop damage and occasional human fatalities as justification for regulated hunting.
Why it matters
The decision raises questions about wildlife conservation, public health, and cultural practices in a nation with one of the world’s largest elephant populations.
In this story
