adminLindani Dube Chronicle Reporter
THE Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) has intensified anti-poaching measures ahead of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) general assembly next month. Zimbabwe and Zambia are co-hosting the assembly between 24 and 29 August.
In an interview, ZimParks public relations manager, Ms Caroline Washaya-Moyo, said conferences such as the forthcoming UNWTO assembly attract international tourists and dignitaries, which might prompt some people to knowingly and unknowingly engage in illegal wildlife activities.
She advised visitors who wished to buy and export wildlife products to seek advice from host wildlife authorities.
“Trade in wildlife products is strictly regulated and all exports require prior grant and presentation of a Cites Export Permit at all ports of exit and entry into Zimbabwe,” said Ms Washaya-Moyo.
She said the authority had prepared well for the general assembly and more compliance officers would be posted at Victoria Falls Airport during the conference and after.
“More staff will be deployed to deal with problem animals that might be encountered within Victoria Falls town,” said Mrs Washaya-Moyo
She said a number of strategies had been implemented to ensure protection of flagship species.
“The anti-poaching unit will pay special attention to the endangered species such as the elephant, black and white rhinos amongst others.
“Intensive protection zones (IPZ) have been improved for the protection of the wildlife.”
She said continuous training of officers in collaboration with the Support Unit of the ZRP were underway.
“There is cross-border collaboration with our neighbours on issues to do with wildlife, we are holding wildlife crime workshops to sensitise stakeholders of wildlife crime and familiarise other law enforcement agents with wildlife laws.
“Dehorning exercises have been carried out in an effort to protect rhinos,” she said.
Ms Washaya-Moyo said a number of activities have been performed to protect the rhino which is poached for its horns scientifically proven not to have any medicinal benefits.
“We continue to engage stakeholders as a way of raising awareness on anti-poaching activities and they have further promised to fund the production of posters and banners that will inform clients not to buy game products from non-registered vendors.
“Meetings were held in Victoria Falls and Bulawayo with the police and immigration where we resolved that officers will continue inspecting trophy dealer premises and game meat sales outlets to further educate the owners on the authority’s permit system,” she said.
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