Lusaka, 31st October, 2025
The Ministry of Tourism, through the Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW), wishes to confirm an unfortunate incident involving a leopard attack on Mr. Binwell Nyirenda, a 55-year-old resident of Yoramu Village in Chief Magodi, Chasefu District, on the morning of 28th October, 2025.
According to a report received from the East Luangwa Area Management Unit, Mr. Nyirenda was returning from his farm at approximately 09:00 hours when he was unexpectedly attacked by a stray sub-adult male leopard. In an act of self-defense, Mr. Nyirenda used an axe he was carrying to fend off the animal, fatally injuring it in the process.
Following the incident, the victim sustained injuries to both hands and minor facial wounds. He was then immediately rushed to Kamuna Hospital in Chasefu, where he is currently receiving medical treatment. So far, the latest reports indicate that Mr. Nyirenda is in a stable condition and recovering well.
Upon receiving notification of the incident, DNPW officers from Lundazi swiftly mobilized to secure the carcass of the leopard and commence investigations. The carcass has since been collected for further examination and trophy preservation.
The Ministry commends the quick response of the Chasefu District Commissioner, the local community, and the DNPW field team, whose coordinated efforts ensured timely reporting, rescue and management of the situation.
With this development, the Ministry, through DNPW, will undertake measures to conduct an on-ground wildlife assessment to ascertain animal movement patterns in the affected area as well as enhance community sensitization programmes on human-wildlife co-existence and safety practices.
In addition, the Department will strengthen monitoring and surveillance in open and agricultural areas distant from protected zones such as Lumimba and Musalangu Game Management Areas. Further, trainings will be conducted to the local residents on appropriate responses during wildlife encounters.
The Ministry of Tourism wishes to reassure the public that it remains committed to safeguarding both human life and wildlife, and that proactive steps are being taken to minimize the recurrence of such incidents.
Public Relations Unit
MINISTRY OF TOURISM