Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
Zimbabwe has begun the capture and translocation of selected game species to the Republic of Equatorial Guinea under a Government-to-Government conservation cooperation arrangement aimed at strengthening biodiversity conservation in the Central African nation.
In a communique, Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) spokesperson, Mr Luckmore Safuli, said the exercise followed a formal request from the Government of Equatorial Guinea for technical assistance in restoring wildlife populations within its protected areas.
Mr Safuli said the programme was informed by scientific assessments and will not negatively affect Zimbabwe’s wildlife populations.
“The capture and translocation initiative is being undertaken in response to a formal request from the Government of Equatorial Guinea for technical support to restore selected wildlife populations and strengthen biodiversity conservation within its protected areas,” he said.
Mr Safuli said wildlife experts had conducted ecological and habitat suitability assessments before the operation commenced, confirming that the proposed release sites in Equatorial Guinea were suitable for the animals.
He said the programme is expected to contribute to long-term biodiversity conservation, ecotourism development and sustainable community livelihoods in the recipient country.
Mr Safuli said the animals being relocated were common plains game species that exist in healthy and sustainable populations in Zimbabwe.
“Their removal has been guided by scientific assessments to ensure there is no adverse impact on Zimbabwe’s biodiversity, ecological integrity or wildlife populations,” he said.
Mr Safuli also assured the public that none of the species being translocated were threatened or endangered and that the operation was being carried out by experienced wildlife professionals.
“The capture, handling and transportation processes are being carried out by experienced wildlife professionals in accordance with Zimbabwe’s law, internationally accepted animal welfare standards and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Live Animals Regulations,” he said.
Mr Safuli said Zimbabwe remained committed to responsible wildlife management and collaboration with fellow African countries in advancing practical conservation solutions that promote resilient ecosystems and sustainable development.
He said the ongoing operation was lawful, carefully planned and professionally managed, with ZimParks committed to providing accurate information on matters of national conservation interest.
