Government has expressed deep regret over the tragic death of Wildlife Police Officer Elijah Kayaya, 28, who lost his life while on duty at Lusaka National Park on January 26, 2026.

Officer Kayaya was fatally injured by a female rhino while he and a colleague were herding white rhinos to safety during routine protection operations.

He was rushed to Chilenje Level One Hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival.

Ministry of Tourism Principal Public Relations Officer Nelly Banda said in a statement to ZANIS that government is disturbed by the incident.

Ms. Banda conveyed condolences to Kayaya’s family, friends, and colleagues, praising his bravery and sacrifice as a solemn reminder of the risks wildlife officers face in protecting Zambia’s natural heritage.

And in separate incident, Ms. Banda recounted that in Livingstone, Wildlife Police Officer Sylvester Ng’andwe survived after two armed poachers opened fire with an AK-47 rifle and a shotgun.

Ms. Banda commended Ng’andwe’s courage and composure, noting that the attack was the second attempted poaching of white rhinos in the area in less than two months.

She stressed that poaching poses a grave threat to conservation and national security, reaffirming that Zambia will not tolerate armed aggression against its wildlife or officers.

Government is reviewing operational guidelines, strengthening safety protocols, and improving support systems for frontline personnel. Banda urged the public to report suspicious activities around national parks to help safeguard endangered species and protect officers.