Zimbabwe has invited bids for the purchase of wild animals, citing a devastating drought and overpopulation.
According to Reuters news agency, the country wants to destock part of its wildlife, including elephants and lions, following a crippling drought that has resulted in diminished food reserves in some national parks and conservancies.
Reuters quoted Carolyn Washaya Moyo of the country’s national parks and wildlife management as saying that they have not yet identified the number of animals that are set to be sold to various buyers.
She could not be drawn to say whether foreign buyers are invited to make bids following an international outcry last year over the killing of a tresured lion – Cecil – by an American doctor.
Reacting to this move, Johnny Rodriguez director of the Zimbabwe Conservation Trust, told Studio 7 that the exercise is a result of poor wildlife management.