Hwange Man Survives Night of Terror After Lion Cubs Attack

A 25-year-old man from Lubangwe in Hwange is recovering at Victoria Falls Hospital after surviving a frightening attack by two lion cubs.

Clement Sibanda said he was walking home from the shops at night when the cubs suddenly emerged from the bush and attacked him.

“I managed to break free and climbed a tree,” he said. “I then heard the mother lion roaring nearby before all three lions sat beneath the tree until early morning.”

Sibanda remained trapped in the tree for several hours before climbing down at around 7am to seek help.

He is receiving treatment for serious injuries to his face, back and hips.

The attack adds to growing concerns over human-wildlife conflict in Matabeleland. According to the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks), wild animals killed 13 people and injured 10 others in Matabeleland North and South between January and November last year, with Hwange and Victoria Falls among the worst-affected areas.