ZAMBIA – A headman from Chimulu Village in Chasefu District is being hailed as a hero after killing a leopard with an axe in a dramatic fight for survival — a routine firewood trip that exploded into a deadly fight for survival.
The terrifying incident unfolded yesterday around 8:00 a.m, when Binwell Nyirenda, aged between 40 and 45 and popularly known as Headman Yolamu, ventured into the bush to collect firewood for domestic use.
As he was cutting trees, a leopard suddenly sprang from behind a thicket and charged at him.
Caught off guard but armed with an axe, Nyirenda reacted instinctively.
In a desperate bid to save his life, he struck the wild animal multiple times in a fierce struggle that ended with the leopard dead and the headman wounded.
“I just saw it coming from behind the bush. I had no choice but to defend myself. It was a matter of life and death,” said Nyirenda, who sustained minor injuries to his arms and legs.
Moments later, villagers who heard the commotion rushed to the scene.
They found the lifeless leopard nearby and quickly escorted the injured headman back to the village, where he received medical attention.
Officials from the Department of National Parks and Wildlife were notified and are expected to visit the area to assess the situation and determine whether the leopard had strayed from a protected zone.
According to Face of Malawi, locals have praised Nyirenda’s bravery, calling him a “true village hero.”
Many believe his quick thinking may have saved not only his own life but potentially others in the community.
In response to the incident, authorities have urged residents to exercise caution when entering bushy areas, especially during the dry season, when wild animals often wander closer to human settlements in search of food and water.
