Musina village in Limpopo under elephant threat
A village near Musina faces growing fear as elephants roam the area, prompting calls for stronger fencing and quicker response.
LIMPOPO – Residents of Sigonde near Musina say they are living in fear as elephants roam the streets at night, damaging fences, uprooting trees and destroying vegetable gardens.
The community, located near the Kruger National Park and the Zimbabwe border, has urged the Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA) to step up efforts to locate and manage the animals.
This is not the first time wild animals have entered the village.
Last December, rangers killed an elephant that had caused trouble, and in April, lions were reportedly seen in the area.
Community safety concerns
Mahwahsane Mudzweda described the danger to daily life: “Our lives are in danger. We do not feel safe at all. A night ago, we had to run for our lives after we saw elephants on our street.”
Another resident, Takalani Mutele, called for urgent reinforcement of the village fence.
“I am very worried because these animals are dangerous,” she said, adding that rumours suggest four elephants are currently roaming the area.
Residents expressed frustration that the department had not done enough to ensure their safety.
From the department, official Zaid Kalla confirmed that rangers were aware of the situation.
Ongoing monitoring efforts
“A team of rangers has been tracing the elephants, and they have returned across the Zimbabwe border. We are continuing to monitor the situation,” he said.
Kalla urged residents to contact community leaders immediately if elephants appear again.
