At least 92 buffaloes drowned on Monday night in the Chobe River near Kabulabula in Namibia’s Zambezi Region, reportedly following a stampede during a routine river crossing.
The Ministry of Information and Communication Technology confirmed the incident on Tuesday but did not provide further details.
By Tuesday morning, residents had begun gathering at the site to collect meat from the carcasses, a practice in the region during mass wildlife deaths.
The Chobe River, which forms part of the border between Namibia and Botswana, is a vital migratory corridor for wildlife, including large herds of African buffalo.
These animals often cross the river in tightly packed groups, especially at night, making them vulnerable to panic-induced stampedes.
Sudden disturbances – such as predator threats or human activity – can trigger chaos, leading to drownings in deep or fast-moving waters.
Buffalo crossings in the Zambezi Region are common during seasonal movements in search of grazing and water.
JN/APA