Botswana Authorizes Hunting Of 23 Elephants For Their Meat For 60th Independence Celebrations
In a shocking decision, Botswana’s Ministry of Environment and Tourism authorized the hunting of 23 elephants in connection with the country’s 60th Independence celebrations, held on September 30.
The authorization covered 23 elephants across eight districts, with the elephants reportedly intended to provide meat for Diamond Jubilee celebrations.
The decision is deeply concerning for the protection of Botswana’s elephants — highly intelligent, social animals that live in close family groups and play an essential role in maintaining healthy ecosystems.
The authorization comes as Botswana continues to address human-elephant conflict and review the management of its elephant population.
Humane, non-lethal measures remain critical to protecting both people and elephants and reducing conflict without killing these extraordinary animals.
In March, the Ministry of Environment and Tourism told Parliament that elephant and lion hunting quotas had been allocated for the 2026 hunting season.
Elephants are a keystone species whose presence helps shape landscapes and supports countless other animals and plants. Protecting their herds and habitats is essential to the long-term health of the ecosystems they help sustain.
The authorization of 23 elephants for hunting does not, however, confirm that all 23 elephants were ultimately killed.
As of October 1, World Animal News has not found an official Botswana government update confirming the final number of elephants hunted in connection with the Diamond Jubilee celebrations.
World Animal News will continue to monitor developments and advocate for humane solutions that protect elephants while helping communities safely coexist with wildlife.
