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Yeukai Karengezeka
Herald Correspondent
Government has renewed its commitment to supporting communities towards effective wildlife conservation and promoting sustainable livelihoods.
In a speech read on her behalf by Mr Tendai Ruzvidzo, the acting deputy director of wildlife conservation in her ministry, Minister of Environment, Climate, and Wildlife Dr Sithembiso Nyoni said Government was working on several policies that enhance collaboration among stakeholders.
“The Government seeks to create enabling policy frameworks for community conservancies as a step towards promoting sustainable livelihoods and conservation efforts.
“Finalising legal instruments like the Wildlife policy and Community Based Natural Resource Management (CBNRM) Policy will provide a solid foundation for these conservancies to thrive.”
The minister said she was looking forward to the transformative impact of community conservancies on biodiversity conservation, sustainable livelihoods and community development.
To foster an enabling environment, Minister Nyoni pledged to enhance policies supporting land rights, provide financial resources, and promote partnerships between Government, NGOs, and the private sector.
Research and data collection will measure the impact of community conservancies, ensuring lessons are learnt from successes and challenges.
Minister Nyoni said the ongoing review of the Parks and Wildlife Act aims to modernise conservation frameworks, introducing community conservancies and a dedicated Human-Wildlife Conflict Relief Fund.
These measures will enhance community engagement, improve human-wildlife conflict resolution, and promote sustainable economic development.
Zimbabwe has set 23 action-oriented targets for 2030, demonstrating its dedication to halting biodiversity loss, restoring ecosystems, and protecting communities.
The country’s community involvement in wildlife management dates back to 1989 with the launch of CAMPFIRE, a prestigious programme that has evolved to address conservation issues.
Meanwhile, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Mission Director Mrs Janean Davis praised the remarkable progress and success of community conservancies in Zimbabwe during the National Convention on Community Conservancies yesterday.
Davis highlighted the significant progress in wildlife conservation and community empowerment through collaborative efforts.
She emphasised the pivotal role of local communities in managing and protecting their natural resources, leading to sustainable outcomes in both conservation and local economic growth.
“Local communities are best positioned to manage and protect their natural resources and should be the primary beneficiaries,” Davis stated.
Davis expressed encouragement for the proposed Parks and Wildlife Act Amendment Bill, which could bring new opportunities for community conservancies.
The USAID/Zimbabwe Resilience ANCHORS project supports local partners and communities in promoting sustainable natural resources governance, safeguarding biodiversity, and building community resilience.
The project focuses on developing “resilience anchors” in the Southeast Lowveld and Mid-Zambezi Valley, reducing vulnerability to climate shocks and economic stresses.
Key initiatives include wildlife conservation through collaborative efforts between communities, Government, and the private sector.
Another key stakeholder, Parks and Wildlife Authority representative Mr Petros Mwera said they were working hand in glove with different communities to ensure that they capacitate them with knowledge, and skills on conservation programmes.
Online Reporter