A Kariba District Hospital employee, Gloria Konde, has been tragically killed in a case of escalating human–wildlife conflict in the resort town
Konde was reportedly trampled to death by an elephant early Sunday morning in the Heights suburb while walking to church with her three children.
Witnesses say the elephant chased after Konde who fell into a ditch, then dragged her several metres before trampling her to death — all in full view of her children.
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Local residents have described the incident as one of the most harrowing in recent memory, with community leaders warning that Kariba’s human–wildlife conflict has reached crisis levels. Elephants, baboons, and hippos are increasingly straying into residential areas due to food shortages and encroachment on their natural habitats.
“This is a sad day for Kariba,” one resident said. “Human–wildlife conflict has escalated into a deadly crisis. Our thoughts go to her family during this very difficult time.”
Authorities from the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) were yet to issue an official statement at the time of writing, but local officials say discussions are already underway on how to enhance patrols and early-warning systems to protect residents.
Konde’s death has reignited calls for a comprehensive human–wildlife management plan that balances conservation with community safety. Kariba residents have long pleaded for urgent intervention — including fencing, relocation of problem animals, and community awareness campaigns — to prevent further loss of life.
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