Botswana faces backlash over elephant culling for independence day

Botswana's government has approved the hunting of 23 elephants alongside numerous other wild animals to provide meat for independence day festivities, drawing sharp rebukes from conservation organizations worldwide.

The cull is intended to supply game meat for national celebrations marking the southern African nation's independence. However, the decision to hunt the elephants—among Africa's largest remaining populations—has proved controversial among environmental groups concerned about dwindling wildlife numbers across the continent.

Conservationists argue that using protected species for celebratory feasts sets a troubling precedent and undermines efforts to preserve Botswana's renowned wildlife heritage. The country's elephant population has faced mounting pressure from poaching and human-wildlife conflict in recent years.

The authorization also extends to the hunting of dozens of other animal species, though details on which species and exact numbers remain limited. Wildlife advocates have called on the government to reconsider the decision and explore alternative sources of protein for the planned celebrations.

Botswana's tourism industry is heavily dependent on its wildlife, with elephant sightings being a major draw for international visitors to the Okavango Delta and other protected areas.