A 42 year old man of Chama in Eastern Province has added to a collection of stories to share with his children and grandchildren in future – not just an ordinary story but one of gratitude, as he will be forever thankful to God for preserving his life from an elephant attack.
Chibeza Nkhoma, of Chungu Village in Chief Chifunda domain is currently receiving treatment at Mapamba Rural Health Center after surviving an elephant attack early this morning.
According to reports, Nkhoma was walking from Mapamba to Chifunda when elephants suddenly appeared and attacked him midway through his journey.
The victim, who had started his journey on foot the previous day, was found unconscious this morning around 07:00 hours by Daliso Nkhoma, who was heading to Mapamba.
Like his name, Daliso quickly sought help from other villagers, who rushed to the scene and took the victim to a health facility nearby
Health personnel at Mapamba Rural Health Center have described Nkhoma’s condition as stable.
Senior Group Headman Vunda of Mapamba confirmed the incident to Kwenje Radio this morning and expressed sadness over what happened appealing to government to assist the victim’s family as Nkoma recovers.
He also called on the government to find a lasting solution to the issue of human-animal conflicts in the area, citing a recent incident in which a pregnant woman was killed by an elephant.
The traditional leader said the incidents have raised concerns about the safety of residents in the area, particularly those who travel on foot or by bicycle.
Meanwhile, Chama Town Council Chairperson Gift Kumwenda called on authorities to expedite the development of legislation that protects human lives from wildlife attacks as he believes the current laws prioritise punishing those who harm animals while neglecting the need to safeguard human life when animals are the aggressors.
Picture for illustration purposes only
By White Luhanga
Kalemba November 23, 2024
