DAR ES SALAAM, Oct. 7 (Xinhua) -- Tanzania has launched a nationwide initiative, leveraging advanced technology to curb rising human-wildlife conflicts, a move hailed as a milestone in the country's conservation efforts.
During a field visit to the Meatu and Itilima districts in the Simiyu Region on Monday, Hassan Abbasi, permanent secretary in the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, unveiled a suite of modern tools designed to enhance wildlife monitoring and protect communities.
The initiative includes drones, wave-pushing devices to track elephant movements, and non-lethal deterrent bombs to prevent animal intrusions into human settlements.
"In Meatu, we have equipped rangers with drones and installed seven wave-pushing devices to track elephants," said Abbasi. "These innovations are part of our broader strategy to ensure safety while promoting coexistence between humans and wildlife."
In Itilima District, where hyena attacks have endangered residents and livestock, a rapid-response task force has been deployed, which is equipped with drones, patrol motorcycles, and non-lethal bombs to swiftly address threats, he said.
Abbasi also emphasized the importance of community involvement. "We must work hand in hand with local communities and traditional elders to end this menace," he said.
He said the ministry is revising the National Strategy for Managing Dangerous and Destructive Animals to integrate scientific advancements and technological tools, aiming to establish sustainable solutions that balance ecological conservation with human safety. ■