The Environment Ministry of Namibia has announced a plan to cull 723 wild animals as a result of severe drought across the Southern Africa. The government is unable to feed its people who are struggling to feed themselves.

They plan to kill 83 elephants, 30 hippos, 300 zebras,60 buffalos, 50 impalas and 100 blue wildebeests. The slaughter will occur in parks and public spaces where the authorities feel that the number of animals exceeds the amount of grazing pasture and water supplies that are available, according to a statement released on Monday.

According to the UN, Namibia last month used up 84% of its food supplies. The upcoming months are predicted to bring high levels of food insecurity to over half of Namibia’s population.

Conflicts between people and wildlife are predicted to worsen during this severe drought if government action is not taken, according to the Environment Ministry.

Namibia has used up more than 50% of its food supplies

“To this effect, 83 elephants from identified conflict areas will be culled, (and) meat will be allocated to the drought relief programme,” it said.

Over 56,800 kg of meat have been harvested from 117 animals that have already been hunted by government-hired outfits and professional hunters.

“This exercise in necessary and is in line with our constitutional mandate where our natural resources are used for the benefit of Namibian citizens,” the Environment Ministry said.

Over 56,800 kg of meat have been harvested from 117 animals that have already been hunted by government-hired outfits and professional hunters.