Wildlife Safety Update: Incident Reported Near Kasungu National Park

Lusaka, Zambia — The Ministry of Tourism has issued a formal statement following a serious human-wildlife conflict incident in Lundazi District, Eastern Province. On the evening of January 19, 2026, a four-year-old child, Patrick Mugala, was attacked by a spotted hyena in Gwilani Village.

Incident Details

The village is situated approximately one kilometer from the border of Kasungu National Park. The attack occurred as the child was returning home from a community cultural event. Thanks to the immediate and courageous intervention of community members, the child was retrieved after the animal retreated.

Young Patrick was initially rushed to Lumezi Mission Hospital for emergency care and has since been referred to Chipata General Hospital due to the severity of his injuries. The Ministry has expressed its deep sympathy and solidarity with the family during this difficult time.

DNPW Action & Public Safety

Following the event, the Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW) mobilized immediately, deploying officers for night patrols and community support.

On the night of January 25, 2026, a second sighting was reported near residential homes. In a delicate operation involving low visibility and the presence of civilians, DNPW officers worked alongside the community to drive the animal away from the village. During this period of high tension, one adult male was taken into custody by the Zambia Police Service for his own protection and to assist with ongoing investigations.

Essential Safety Guidelines

For those living in or visiting wildlife-interface areas, the Ministry and DNPW advise heightened vigilance:

• Peak Hours: Exercise extreme caution during dawn, dusk, and overnight.
• Supervision: Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
• Cooperation: Residents are urged to avoid vigilantism and cooperate fully with DNPW officers and law enforcement.
• Awareness: Stay engaged with the sensitization programs currently being conducted by the DNPW in the Eastern Province.

The Ministry remains dedicated to balancing wildlife conservation with the absolute priority of safeguarding human life.

Official Statement issued by Nelly Banda, Principal Public Relations Officer, Ministry of Tourism, dated 28 January 2026.