Southern African countries, facing the worst drought in over a century, are culling wild animals like elephants and hippos to feed their starving populations.

Namibia plans to kill over 700 animals, while Zimbabwe is set to cull 200 elephants, distributing the meat to those affected by the El Niño-induced drought.

The region’s drought has left 68 million people in need of aid, severely impacting crops and food security, the Wall Street Journal has reported.

While governments argue culling addresses both food shortages and overpopulation, conservationists warn of its impact on wildlife and call for alternative solutions like humanitarian aid and climate-adaptation efforts.

Written by B.C. Begley