Rogue Hippo Terrorise Danda Villagers

Zaka-The Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority vowed to act after a rogue hippopotamus began terrorizing Danda—but days later, their trucks are nowhere in sight. Spotted near Danda Primary School on Tuesday, the three-year-old hippo has since trampled crops and put lives at risk, while villagers wait in vain for the help they were promised.

When contacted earlier this week, the Authority assured residents they were on their way to capture the animal. Yet, as of today, no rangers have arrived. Farmer Temba Ncube, whose maize and sorghum fields were devoured, is reeling. “They said they’d come, but my crops are gone, and I’m left with nothing,” he said. At the school, Headmaster Mr Vakai has resorted to escorting students home himself. “I can’t trust their words when my learners are in danger,” he said.

Villagers are fed up. “We were told help was coming—where is it?” demanded resident Maria Moyo. “This hippo could kill someone while they drag their feet.” Village head John Dube echoed her frustration:

 “They need to keep their promise, capture this animal, and relocate it—now.”

 The Authority’s silence since their initial pledge only fuels the anger, as Danda’s plight highlights a recurring failure to tackle wildlife threats swiftly.

With the Parks and Wildlife Authority’s assurances proving hollow, fear grips the village—and trust in those meant to protect them erodes by the hour.

No immediate comment could be obtained from the Parks Authority.