Botswana lifts hunting ban, citing 'conflict' between humans and elephants

Botswana’s government says it has lifted its ban on elephant hunting, a decision that is likely to bring protests from wildlife protection groups.

The southern African nation is home to more elephants than any other country, with an estimated 130,000.

The government’s statement posted on social media says the change comes after consultations with stakeholders.

It says hunting will resume “in an orderly and ethical manner” but does not say how it will be regulated. The hunting ban had been in effect since 2014.

Botswana’s environment ministry says a Cabinet review found high levels of conflicts between elephants and humans. 

“We cannot continue to be spectators while others debate and take decisions about our elephants,” President Masisi told the presidents of the other countries at a meeting earlier this month.

"Conflict between elephants and people is on the rise as the demand for land, for agriculture and settlements is growing." 

The motion to lift the ban was first tabled in June last year.