Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
Zimbabwe has reaffirmed its commitment to science-based elephant conservation as the country joined the rest of the world in commemorating World Elephant Day 2026, with the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) calling for stronger collaboration to ensure the long-term survival of the species.
ZimParks spokesperson Mr Luckmore Safuli said the country remains committed to conserving its elephant population through science-based management, sustainable utilisation and community-centred conservation.
“Zimbabwe joins the global community in commemorating World Elephant Day, reaffirming its commitment to conserving one of Africa’s most iconic species through science-based management, sustainable utilisation and community-centred conservation,” said Mr Safuli.
Zimbabwe is home to an estimated 100 000 African savanna elephants, one of the largest populations on the continent.
According to ZimParks, the achievement reflects decades of investment in protected area management, scientific research, wildlife law enforcement and partnerships with local communities and conservation organisations.
Mr Safuli said the authority continues to implement the Zimbabwe Elephant Management Plan, which includes aerial and ground population surveys, ecological monitoring, anti-poaching operations, habitat management, wildlife disease surveillance and measures to reduce human-elephant conflict.
These interventions are aimed at ensuring viable elephant populations while protecting habitats and supporting communities living alongside wildlife.
He said community-based natural resource management initiatives, including the CAMPFIRE programme, remain central to Zimbabwe’s conservation strategy by enabling communities to benefit from tourism, sustainable wildlife utilisation and conservation enterprises while participating in wildlife protection.
Mr Safuli said Zimbabwe’s conservation efforts contribute to international biodiversity commitments and regional cooperation through the Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA TFCA), which promotes cross-border protection of elephant populations.
He urged stakeholders to continue supporting collaborative conservation efforts.
“Conserving elephants is not only about protecting an iconic species; it is about safeguarding ecosystems, strengthening livelihoods and ensuring that Zimbabwe’s rich natural heritage continues to benefit present and future generations,” said Mr Safuli.
