Woman killed, child injured in elephant attack amid rising human–wildlife conflict

A woman has been killed and her four-year-old son critically injured after an elephant attack in Chama District, marking a sharp escalation in human-animal conflict in the area.

The victim, identified as Rodah Botha, aged between 40 and 45, was attacked around 13:00 hours on Sunday while working in her maize field in a Game Management Area.

She had gone to scare away wild animals threatening her crops, carrying her young son on her back.

According to Muchinga Province Police Commissioner, Dennis Moola, the elephant charged and killed Botha on the spot.

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Her son sustained multiple injuries and was initially taken to Kapishyasenga Rural Health Centre before being referred to Chama District Hospital.

His condition is reported to be critical.

The incident comes just two days after another resident in the district was reportedly killed by a buffalo.

Police say the matter was reported by Lumezi Ward, Councillor Handson Nyirenda, 28.

An inquiry file has been opened, and the family has been advised to proceed with burial arrangements.

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