In a major conservation effort, more than 250 elephants have been successfully relocated within Malawi.
The operation, which included airlifting the giant animals upside down, was part of a project to move them to their new home in Kasungu National Park.
263 elephants and 431 other animals, such as impalas, buffaloes, warthogs, sable antelopes, and waterbucks, were transported 250 miles from Liwonde National Park to Kasungu.
The relocation, which took a month to complete, aimed to ensure healthy habitats in Malawi’s parks and support the growth of wildlife populations. It also sought to benefit surrounding communities by boosting tourism and creating jobs.
Malawi’s Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW) carried out the complex move in collaboration with African Parks and the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW).
“We are thrilled the operation was a success, thanks to the efforts of all involved,” said Brighton Kumchedwa, Director of National Parks and Wildlife.
“Adding elephants and other species to Kasungu will enhance tourism and create employment opportunities, helping to support a conservation-driven economy.”
Kasungu, Malawi’s second-largest national park, covers 2,100 square kilometers, offering a much larger space for the animals than their previous habitat in Liwonde.
Sam Kamoto, Country Manager for African Parks, highlighted the government’s dedication to wildlife conservation.
“Since 2015, we’ve worked with DNPW to boost wildlife and tourism in Liwonde. Now, the addition of elephants to Kasungu will positively impact tourism and local jobs.”
The park’s elephant population had dramatically decreased due to poaching, dropping from 1,200 in the 1970s to just 49 in 2015. This relocation marks a significant step in restoring the population.
Patricio Ndadzela, IFAW’s Country Director for Malawi and Zambia, praised the collaboration behind the project.
“This achievement demonstrates the strength of DNPW’s partnerships. We will continue working with the Malawi Government to restore Kasungu to its former glory.”
With the successful relocation, hopes are high that Kasungu National Park will see a resurgence in wildlife numbers and tourism, ensuring a brighter future for the region’s natural environment.
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