The Southern African country, known for its arid climate, is facing the worst drought conditions in 100 years, which have left nearly half of its 2.5 million population food insecure.

The United Nations (UN) revealed last week that 84 per cent of the country’s food reserves have been exhausted.

To deal with the food crisis, the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism announced in a statement that the government will contract professional hunters and safari outfitters to carry out culls in areas where game numbers are sustainable, including national parks.

"This exercise [is] 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.

Among the animals to be killed are 83 elephants, 30 hippos, 60 buffalos, 50 impalas, 100 blue wildebeests, 300 zebras and 100 elands, the second-largest species of antelope.

Already, the government has contributed nearly 57,000 kilograms of game meat from 157 animals to the relief program.

"By reducing wildlife numbers in certain parks and communal areas where we believe the population exceeds the available grazing and water resources, we can better manage the current grazing pressure and water availability," the ministry added.

The government indicated that the 83 elephants will be identified in conflict areas where human-wildlife interactions can include crop destruction, livestock loss and damage to homes and property, as well as causing injuries or death to people.

The ministry had warned in April 2023 of worsening human-animal conflicts exacerbated by recurring droughts, which have significantly impacted agriculture, livestock, and water resources.

Among the animals to be killed are 83 elephants, 30 hippos, 60 buffalos, 50 impalas, 100 blue wildebeests, 300 zebras and 100 elands, the second-largest species of antelope.