New equipment transforms wildlife conservation in Matobo National Park

A new chapter in wildlife conservation has unfolded at Matobo National Park in Matabeleland South Province where an operations room established at the Whitewaters offices is set to transform how conservation activities are co-ordinated on the ground.

Commissioned by Environment, Climate and Wildlife Minister, Dr Evelyn Ndlovu on Friday, the newly established conservation infrastructure at Matobo National Park marks a significant milestone in Zimbabwe’s drive to modernise wildlife protection and strengthening environmental management systems.

Mr Greg Murphy representing United Kingdom-based Chengeta Safari in partnership with ZimParks and other companies, said the initiative is aimed at strengthening conservation efforts through improved co-ordination and technology.

He explained that the operations room will serve as a central hub, enabling rangers and park officials to monitor activities in real time while enhancing decision-making processes.

“A key feature of the system is the integration of EarthRanger, a digital application widely used in global conservation,” he said

“EarthRanger allows rangers to collect critical field data, including wildlife sightings and ecological conditions, while also tracking patrol routes.”

Mr Murphy emphasised that this does not only improves ecological monitoring but also helps evaluate workforce performance and efficiency.

The platform further integrates technologies such as camera traps and animal tracking collars, offering a comprehensive overview of conservation efforts within the park.

Through advanced systems, rangers will be able to track wildlife in real time, monitor environmental conditions and co-ordinate responses with greater precision.

Mr Murphy described the system as “international best practice,” noting that Zimbabwe continues to earn global recognition for its commitment to wildlife conservation.

He highlighted the speed at which the facility was established, revealing that the fully functional operations room was completed within just seven days of equipment arrival a feat he described as remarkable.

Mr Murphy was quick to credit the collaborative effort behind the project, acknowledging contributions from the Matobo Conservation Society and Dambari Wildlife Trust, alongside ZimParks staff.

In her remarks, Minister Ndlovu praised the commissioning of new conservation infrastructure as a major step towards strengthening Zimbabwe’s wildlife protection and advancing national development goals.

Addressing stakeholders after touring the facilities at Whitewaters, the minister said the developments represent more than physical projects, describing them as a blueprint for the future of conservation in Zimbabwe.

The projects include an operations control room, ranger support systems and protective infrastructure aimed at enhancing efficiency on the ground.

Dr Ndlovu commended the dedication of the ZimParks and other partners, noting that collaboration remains central to achieving sustainable conservation outcomes.

She said the initiatives align with the country’s broader vision of becoming an upper middle-income society, anchored on national development strategies that prioritise environmental protection and economic growth.

“What we are witnessing here is practical, tangible and effective environmental protection in action,” she said.

“Conservation and development should not be viewed as opposing forces but as complementary drivers of national progress.”

A key highlight of the tour was the integration of modern technology into conservation efforts. Minister Ndlovu underscored the importance of innovation in addressing emerging threats such as organised poaching syndicates, which are increasingly sophisticated and well-resourced.

She described the Whitewaters operations control room as a nerve centre that marks a new era in wildlife management.

Government has also said there are plans to replicate similar technologies in other parts of the country to strengthen conservation nationwide.

She called for increased investment in research and innovation, urging closer collaboration with universities and institutions of higher learning to develop locally driven solutions.