admin
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
THE Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) has partnered Beitbridge and Chiredzi Rural District Councils to manage the Sengwe-Tshipise Wilderness Corridor.
The pact, aimed at enhancing transnational cooperation in ecosystem management and promoting socio-economic development in the region, was formalised in a memorandum of understanding.
A cornerstone of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park, the corridor facilitates free wildlife movement between the national parks of Gonarezhou of Zimbabwe, Kruger of South Africa and Gaza of Mozambique with the trilateral initiative involving the three countries established under the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park Treaty signed in 2002.
Speaking at the recent signing ceremony with the two rural district authorities, ZimParks director-general Dr Fulton Mangwanya said the agreement marked a pivotal moment in their journey towards greater collaboration, shared prosperity and a brighter future for their stakeholders.
“It underscores the power of teamwork and the transformative potential of united efforts,” he said.
“This agreement aligns with our commitment to driving progress and making a meaningful impact on the communities we serve.
“By joining forces with Beitbridge and Chiredzi Rural District Councils, we are strengthening our ability to address both conservation challenges and poverty alleviation”.
Dr Mangwanya said they were honoured to partner the local authorities.
“Beitbridge and Chiredzi Rural District Councils, we are honoured to have you as our partners in this endeavour and together, we will explore new frontiers, identified innovative solutions and creating lasting positive impact in the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Conservation Area,” he said.
“Our shared commitment to excellently serve the communities, our complementary strengths and our unwavering determination will be the driving forces behind our success.
“I am confident that through our collective efforts, we will redefine the Sengwe-Tshipise landscape and transform it into a beacon where people will come to take notes on sound community projects and sustainable wildlife management.”
Beitbridge RDC chairperson Mr Oscar Chiromo said the tripartite arrangement would empower their communities in line with the national vision of an upper-middle-income -society and economy.
Deputy director for Infrastructure Development and Environment Management in the office of the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Masvingo Province, Mr Clorence Matewe, said they had been waiting for the agreement for a long time.
Online Reporter