Luanda:One hundred elephants from Namibia will be relocated to the Bicuar and Quiçama national parks by January 2027, as part of an initiative by the National Institute for Biodiversity and Conservation Areas (INBAC).

According to Angola Press News Agency, the relocation project involves collaboration with partners including Namibia Wildlife Vets, Elephants Without Borders, and the Erindi Private Game Reserve. This information was provided by INBAC director, Miguel Xavier, who noted that 19 elephants have already been moved to Bicuar National Park, with another 21 scheduled to arrive in November. The remaining 60 are set to be relocated to Quiçama National Park in January 2027.

Miguel Xavier explained that the relocation is part of a broader wildlife recovery program developed by INBAC, which includes the introduction of 20 giraffes to Quiçama National Park in January 2027. The program also encompasses the Chimalavera Natural and Regional Park, aiming to restore ecosystems and strengthen biodiversity conservation in Angola.

The initiative aligns with the Strategy and Action Plan for Elephant Conservation (NEAP 2018-2028) and Program 32 of the 2023-2027 National Development Plan, prioritizing the conservation of threatened species and the repopulation of national parks with native wildlife. Bicuar National Park, located in Huíla Province, covers 7,900 square kilometers and was established to protect savanna elephants and other species. Quiçama National Park in Luanda Province spans 9,960 km², featuring a diverse landscape. Chimalavera Regional Park, in Benguela Province, is known for its semi-arid vegetation and wildlife, including the famous fringe-eared oryx.