Rescue of stranded hippos successful
Pond essential water source
The environment ministry implemented a strategy to restore water to the pond.
Recent interventions by the environment and tourism ministry to rescue hippos stranded in the Salambala conservancy have been highly successful, with no moralities reported to date.
Ministry spokesperson Romeo Muyunda said the ongoing drought had caused the pond where the hippos lived to dry up, creating a muddy pond.
In May, the situation was deemed critical and immediate action was required.
“Our latest effort involved procuring a high-capacity water pump and generator, valued at N$66 531," he said.
The pump, which delivers around 18 000 litres per hour, was installed in June.
Since its installation, water levels in the pond have risen, providing much-needed relief and hope for the hippos’ survival.
“Our goal is to maintain sufficient water levels in the pond until the next rainy season. This new pump replaces a smaller unit purchased in April, which had limited effectiveness,” Muyunda said.
Critical actions taken
Additionally, the ministry has installed a solar-powered system to complement the generator, ensuring water is pumped during daylight hours.
They have also supplied over 2 600 litres of fuel to Salambala conservancy staff responsible for operating the pump.
“These efforts highlight the ministry’s commitment to wildlife conservation and the crucial role it plays in the social and economic advancement of communities, particularly in communal areas.”
Muyunda said while the situation is improving, "we will continue to monitor it closely and take appropriate measures as needed."
He said the pond remains an essential source of drinking water for both wildlife and livestock in the region.
Ministry spokesperson Romeo Muyunda said the ongoing drought had caused the pond where the hippos lived to dry up, creating a muddy pond.
In May, the situation was deemed critical and immediate action was required.
“Our latest effort involved procuring a high-capacity water pump and generator, valued at N$66 531," he said.
The pump, which delivers around 18 000 litres per hour, was installed in June.
Since its installation, water levels in the pond have risen, providing much-needed relief and hope for the hippos’ survival.
“Our goal is to maintain sufficient water levels in the pond until the next rainy season. This new pump replaces a smaller unit purchased in April, which had limited effectiveness,” Muyunda said.
Critical actions taken
Additionally, the ministry has installed a solar-powered system to complement the generator, ensuring water is pumped during daylight hours.
They have also supplied over 2 600 litres of fuel to Salambala conservancy staff responsible for operating the pump.
“These efforts highlight the ministry’s commitment to wildlife conservation and the crucial role it plays in the social and economic advancement of communities, particularly in communal areas.”
Muyunda said while the situation is improving, "we will continue to monitor it closely and take appropriate measures as needed."
He said the pond remains an essential source of drinking water for both wildlife and livestock in the region.
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