A senior wildlife ranger with the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) was tragically killed by an elephant in Kariba, the authority has confirmed.
Ranger Josphat Mandishara, 62, was on a routine extended patrol in the Gatche-Gatche area when the fatal encounter occurred late Wednesday night.
According to ZimParks spokesperson Tinashe Farawo, Mandishara and his team—two fellow rangers and a member of the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP)—had stopped at the Gatche-Gatche Irrigation Scheme for a resupply run.
While his colleagues remained engaged, Mandishara returned alone to the harbor where their patrol boat was docked.
“It was during this short trip that he encountered a charged elephant that emerged unexpectedly and fatally injured him,” Farawo said in a statement.
Farawo said Mandishara’s remains were transported to Kariba District Hospital for a post-mortem while police launched an investigation into the circumstances of the attack.
In response, ZimParks has deployed rangers from the Charara Safari Area to track and manage the elephant, classified as a “problem animal” following the fatal incident.
“Our staff’s safety, as well as that of our wildlife, is our utmost priority. We are committed to taking necessary measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.” Farawo said
Mandishara, a seasoned ranger with decades of experience was hailed for his unwavering commitment to conservation.
“Ranger Mandishara will be remembered for his dedication and service to wildlife conservation in Zimbabwe. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time.” ZimParks Director General Prof. Edson Gandiwa said.
