Malawi Snake Rescue Urges People To Stop Killing Snakes

By Smile Hamilton Malawi

Malawi Snake Rescue has appealed to the public to stop killing snakes, stressing that they are an important part of the country’s ecosystem.

One of the organisation’s officials, Anaclete Josen, made the call after a mamba died despite efforts to save it following serious injuries.

Josen explained that the snake had been found at Natural Resources College in Lilongwe, but before it was rescued, people had already attacked it with sticks while dogs had also bitten it.

Snake handlers attempted to stitch the wounds, but the pain from the dog bites eventually led to its death.

Josen, who also lectures at the Catholic University in Chiradzulu, advised people not to kill snakes when they encounter them, but instead to call experts trained to handle them safely.

“Anyone trying to kill a snake also puts themselves at risk of being bitten as the snake tries to defend itself. Therefore, attempting to kill a snake is putting one’s own life in danger,” he said.

Josen further explained that snakes play an important role in balancing the environment. “Snakes help control the population of rodents such as rats, which are known to damage crops and spread diseases. They are also vital in the production of certain medicines. Killing them blindly is destroying part of nature that we need for our own survival,” he stressed.

He therefore urged Malawians to change their perception of snakes, saying they are not just dangerous creatures but also valuable allies in agriculture, health, and biodiversity.