Man Survives Lion Attack in Kasika, Injured While Defending Herd
By Aneli Fura
A 34-year-old man from the Kasika area in Kabbe South is recovering in Katima Mulilo State Hospital after he was mauled by a lion while herding cattle on Thursday.
The victim, identified as Nsundano Libuku, was accompanying two friends as they led his grandfather’s cattle towards a nearby stream when the herd suddenly scattered in different directions. Libuku said the commotion prompted them to investigate, and they soon came across a calf that appeared to have been killed by a lion.
Before they could retreat, Libuku heard a roar and saw a lion charging at him. He said he managed to react quickly, thrusting his spear into the animal’s forehead as it leapt onto him.
The struggle left him with injuries to his left hand, right cheek, neck, and the left side of his head and ear. He said the lion eventually broke free from the spear and fled. It was only after the attack that the group noticed a second lion nearby, which they believe may have been accompanying the first one.
Libuku’s friends were unable to intervene as they were unarmed. He received initial medical assistance from Nakabolelwa Conservancy officials before being taken to Kasika Clinic and later transported by ambulance to Katima Mulilo.
Officials from the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism have acknowledged receiving the report and said they will issue a response once their assessment is complete.
