CHIEF Chundu, real name Abel Mbasera, has called for dialogue between Nyamakate villagers and Akashinga, a wildlife conservation organisation, following a troubling incident involving the alleged assault of a 16-year-old boy and the shooting of his dogs by a top employee at the conversation.
The situation has sparked significant concern within the community regarding the dynamics between local residents and conservation initiatives.
The incident occurred last month when Akashinga scouts, Venon Magaya and Farai Goboza, were patrolling the boundary between the national parks and the village.
They encountered Collen William, who was accompanied by seven dogs.
The scouts accused William’s dogs of killing a rabbit, which led to a violent confrontation.
During this encounter, the scouts took William with them to their manager, Henry Mclawane.
The manager allegedly shot two of William’s dogs with a P1 pistol, resulting in the death of one dog and injuries to the other.
One Shadreck Midzi, who was with Mclawane, also fired at the dogs, further escalating the situation.
Following the incident, William reported the incident to the police, which resulted in the arrest of Mclawane and Midzi.
The damages have been assessed at US$240, but the fate of the other dogs remains uncertain.
William said he was traumatised by the incident, sharing that he is struggling to sleep due to the distressing memories of the gunshots and the loss of his dogs.
“The event continues to traumatise me. I usually don’t sleep in the night after hearing the gun shots in my head and visualising the brutal killing of my dogs,” he said.
In response, Chief Chundu called for constructive dialogue between the villagers and Akashinga, emphasising the need for improved communication and co-operation to resolve such conflicts.
He pointed out that when wildlife encroaches onto community areas, it is essential for residents to engage with the relevant organisations for assistance.
“There is need for dialogue between the community and Akashinga. When animals encroach wildlife areas, people from the community should engage the relevant organisation manning the area for assistance,” Chief Chundu said.
Akashinga operations manager Collen Cloete confirmed the incident, adding that their relationship with the Nyamakate community was good.
“We do have sound relationship with the Nyamakate community as we do a lot of things with them,” he said.
The incident highlights the ongoing challenges in balancing wildlife conservation efforts with the rights and concerns of local communities, underscoring the importance of dialogue and collaboration.
Meanwhile, Mclawane is expected to appear in court with another charge of unlawful entry.
It is alleged that he went to a village in Nyamakate, where he searched a villager without a warrant or being accompanied by police.
Conservation organisations work under Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority protocols.
