Written by: Badr Ahmed

In a scene reflecting the overlap between wildlife and infrastructure in Burkina Faso, authorities have called on residents and users of national roads to be cautious, after movements of groups of elephants were spotted in a number of areas, particularly on the Ouagadougou-Bobo Dioulasso and Ouagadougou-Bou axes.

The Minister of Security announced that elephants were recently seen in the Boromo and Heridogo areas on National Route 1, as well as around the Nazinon Bridge on National Route 5, explaining that these movements extend across natural corridors linking protected areas in the country.

Warnings issued in Burkina Faso after elephants appear on major road axes

The minister stressed that the movement of elephants between these areas is a natural environmental phenomenon that reflects the continued vitality of wildlife in Burkina Faso. However, the approach of these huge animals to roads and residential areas may pose a direct threat to the safety of citizens and their property, especially in the event of an unexpected collision with road users.

In this context, the government stressed the need to adhere to a number of preventive measures to avoid any potential incidents, including avoiding approaching or attempting to interact with elephants, and maintaining a safe distance when they are spotted near roads or villages. It also called for respecting speed limits, especially on road sections that pass through natural areas or reserves.

Authorities also urged residents to avoid traveling in areas where elephants are present at night, due to poor visibility and the increased risk of danger. They further emphasized the need to take measures to protect farmland, grazing lands, and forests from any potential damage these animals might cause, while stressing the prohibition against harming or killing elephants, as they are a legally protected species.

The government announced the allocation of the free number 1010 for the immediate reporting of any elephant movements in residential areas or on roads, with the aim of enabling forestry and wildlife teams to intervene quickly and manage the situation safely.

The Minister of Security concluded his call by emphasizing the importance of vigilance and community cooperation, stressing that coexistence with wildlife requires collective awareness and shared responsibility, ensuring the protection of both humans and animals, and reducing the risks associated with the intersection of human movement routes with the natural routes of elephants.