Botswana’s President Mokgweetsi Masisi expressed his discontent with Germany’s proposed crackdown on hunting trophies by suggesting the relocation of 20,000 elephants to Germany. He highlighted the negative impact of the growing elephant population on Botswana, citing instances of property destruction and human fatalities caused by the animals.
Masisi defended Botswana’s conservation efforts, which have led to a significant increase in the elephant population, emphasizing the role of hunting in population control. He criticized the German Environment Minister for interfering in Botswana’s affairs without fully understanding the consequences of her actions.
The president’s proposal to gift 20,000 elephants to Germany as a response to the hunting trophy restrictions reflects his frustration with what he perceives as unwarranted international interference. By offering this unconventional solution, Masisi aims to draw attention to the complexities of wildlife conservation and human-wildlife conflict in his country.
