KATIMA MULILO, Namibia – An estimated 100 buffaloes drowned in the Chobe River on Monday night at Kabulabula in Namibia’s Zambezi Region, officials said.
Namibia’s information ministry said investigations were under way to determine the cause, although similar incidents in the past have been linked to stampedes when large herds attempt to cross the fast-flowing river.
The Chobe River, which forms a natural border between Namibia and Botswana, is home to vast herds of buffalo, elephants and other wildlife. Mass drownings are not uncommon, particularly during the dry season when animals converge at the river for water.
In November 2018, more than 400 buffaloes perished under similar circumstances.
In October 2023, over 100 buffaloes drowned while being chased by lions.
As is tradition, local residents were flocking to Kabulabula on Tuesday to collect meat from the carcasses.
Conservationists have in the past raised concerns about the ecological impact of these drownings, warning that decaying carcasses could pollute the river system and attract predators closer to human settlements.
The information ministry urged communities to exercise caution while gathering meat.
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