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opportunities for economic growth and foster regional integration and development.
Officially launching the world class park, which spans five Southern African countries — Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe at Katima Mulilo Sports Stadium, the five ministers of environment, tourism, wildlife and natural resources from these countries described it as a milestone development for the region.
The ministers who were accompanied by traditional leaders from the conservation area which has 44 game reserves and national parks, 3 000 species of flora and fauna as well as over 600 bird species said the park will not only preserve the natural treasure of biodiversity but will also guarantee peace and stability in the region. The launch, they said, will afford various stakeholders from partner countries the opportunity to come together, interact and participate in symbolising the legal establishement of the KAZA TFCA. In his address head of the Zimbabwean delegation and Environment and Natural Resources Minister Francis Nhema said the conservation park should bring a positive change to people and communities around the park.
“The KAZA TCF has evolved over the past 10 years and it is a dream come true.
“However, the historic launch of the park should not just remain in black and white but bear fruits for the communities around the park,” Minister Nhema said.
He said lives of people surrounded by the park should improve and the parks should help in sustainable development of the communities with road construction, clinics and schools among other infrastructure.
He urged tradition leaders to safeguard natural and cultural resources for the present and future generations. Minister Nhema said tourism will not be able to produce the targeted results for the region if member states failed to implement the treaty signed to establish the park. Heads of State and Government from the five member countries signed the KAZA TFCA treaty at the Sadc Summit in August last year in Luanda, Angola.
“With commitment towards a shared goal, KAZA can achieve a rare success of reversing migration as the region’s economically active and skilled population can drift back to exploit unfolding opportunities thereby contributing towards the desired but often elusive development hub,” said Minister Nhema.
Online Reporter