Online ReporterIvan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
ZAMBEZI and Victoria Falls National Parks have been awarded the Global Model of Sustainable Tourism 2025, a top international honour presented by the Global Forum on Human Settlements in Geneva, Switzerland.
The award, issued under the Sustainable Cities and Human Settlements Awards (SCAHSA), recognised Zimbabwe’s flagship tourism destination for its effective conservation strategies, strong community involvement and commitment to sustainable tourism.
ZimParks senior regional manager for North-Western Zimbabwe, Mr Samson Chibaya, said the accolade reflected the combined efforts of conservationists, communities and partners working to protect the parks.
“This award celebrates not only the beauty of the landscapes but also the collaborative efforts between rangers, conservation partners, researchers and local communities who safeguard them every day,” he said.
Zambezi and Victoria Falls National Parks form part of the Mosi-oa-Tunya/Victoria Falls World Heritage Site, home to iconic wildlife, rich biodiversity and the world-renowned Victoria Falls.
They are also central to the Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA TFCA), a regional initiative promoting cross-border conservation across five countries.
ZimParks has strengthened its conservation record through robust anti-poaching operations, coordinated patrols along the Zambia border and compliance with national and regional wildlife protection laws.
Pollution control programmes and river health monitoring have helped maintain the ecological integrity of the Zambezi River.
The Authority has also launched a Smart Parks programme with the Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust to introduce technology-driven tools aimed at improving the management and security of the protected areas.
ZimParks Director-General Professor Edson Gandiwa said the honour demonstrated the organisation’s commitment to blending conservation with community development.
“This global recognition reinforces our belief that protecting nature is not in conflict with development needs — communities benefit, wildlife thrives and our natural heritage endures for generations,” he said.
Emerging wildlife film company The Barking Gecko supported the achievement by producing visual content that highlighted the destination’s conservation successes.
The award positions Zambezi and Victoria Falls National Parks among the world’s leading models of sustainable tourism reaffirming Zimbabwe’s growing reputation in global conservation.
Peter Tanyanyiwa