The Elephants Protection Society has called for urgent implementation of elephant-related compensation for communities living around Maun. Founder Oaitse Nawa highlighted the increasing risks posed by injured or disturbed elephants, which can cause significant danger to farmers, residents, and property in affected areas.
Nawa emphasised that current compensation schemes often cover only elephant-related deaths, leaving communities exposed to losses from injuries, crop destruction, and property damage. He argued that since elephants contribute substantially to national revenue through tourism and conservation efforts, communities living alongside them deserve protection and fair compensation for any harm or disruption caused.
According to Nawa, expanding compensation to include injuries and disturbances would not only safeguard livelihoods but also promote coexistence between humans and elephants. Providing these measures would recognise the sacrifices communities make in hosting wildlife and strengthen conservation efforts by fostering local support.
The Elephants Protection Society urges government and relevant authorities to act promptly, ensuring that affected communities receive timely compensation. Protecting both residents and elephants, while fairly addressing human-wildlife conflict, is critical for sustainable conservation and local development in the Maun region.
