Authorities at Nech Sar National Park have announced a planned, controlled culling of baboon troops in Arba Minch starting July 17 to curb escalating human-wildlife conflicts. In an official letter sent to local security, environmental, and administrative bodies, park officials advised the public that controlled gunshots would occur near the university, airport, general hospital, and residential neighborhoods to thin out aggressive troops.
Local residents have largely welcomed the decision, describing the action as long overdue following years of property damage, crop destruction, and bodily harm. According to community members, the baboons have repeatedly broken metal roof sheets, stolen household items, and attacked vulnerable individuals—including children and the elderly—raising severe health and safety concerns across affected quarters.
Park staff explained that an unsustainable rise in the baboon population led the animals to alter their behavior, expanding from raiding backyard gardens to preying on domestic livestock such as chickens and goat kids. Following escalating public grievances and judicial review, authorities finalized preparations to target older baboons and troop leaders for selective removal.
Addressing social media controversy surrounding the leaked notification letter, Nech Sar National Park Manager Meseret Demlew clarified that the operation is a lawful, scientific management measure rather than unsanctioned animal harm. Demlew emphasized that comprehensive field assessments and stakeholder consultations were completed in accordance with national wildlife conservation protocols before launching the initiative.
The culling strategy was formally approved by the Ethiopian Biodiversity Institute, the Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority, national park headquarters, and the Arba Minch Mayor’s Office. Officials highlighted that targeted population management remains a standard administrative mechanism utilized across Ethiopia to resolve severe human-wildlife conflicts while ensuring community security.