Online Reporter
Caroline Mutsawu in Dete
IN a bid to deepen its understanding of the intricate relationships between wildlife and domesticated animals, socio-ecological research initiative Zone Atelier has extended its research to unravel the dynamics of disease transmission between wildlife and livestock in Hwange District.
In collaboration with French research institutions (CIRAD, CNRS, and IRD), the organisation has adopted the One Health approach, which seeks to understand the complex interactions driving the spread of diseases between wildlife and domesticated animals, rather than focusing solely on zoonotic diseases.
Speaking during a soccer tournament held in Dete, Zone Atelier research station manager, Mr Zakhele Mpala, highlighted the significance of the event.
“Zone Atelier is engaged in research and ecology, using the One Health approach to examine the spread of diseases between wildlife and domesticated animals. Our focus is mainly on interactions between wildlife and livestock, rather than diseases transmitted from animals to humans or vice versa, within Hwange District. We have a 25-year contract, and so far, we have completed seven years of research in the area. We look forward to presenting results before the completion of this contract,” said Mr Mpala.
Through sports and science, the organisation has sought to address social challenges and unemployment in the Hwange region. Earlier this year in August, Zone Atelier awarded grants of up to US$5 000 to support innovative projects that empower women and youth.
“We awarded small grants of US$5 000, including support for a school club in Hwange, to enhance community resilience in the face of climate change. We are yet to see the yields from these projects. Today, we are gathered here at Engotsheni Soccer Ground, bringing together different communities with the same mandate.
““We’re glad that the impact of Zone Atelier’s efforts is evident in the community’s response to the initiative. As you witnessed today, there were lots of people here, meaning many are occupied on weekends — less activity on the poaching side and more activity at the soccer fields,” said Mr Mpala.
The Rhino Champions Cup League (RCCL), a Division One soccer league sponsored by Wild and Free Foundation and Painted Dog Conservation (PDC), held its year-end tournament campaigning against poaching, drug and substance abuse, and unemployment. The tournament took place on Saturday and Sunday.
Zone Atelier’s sponsorship of the tournament has been ongoing for seven consecutive years, as part of its 25-year research programme studying the Hwange socio-ecosystem — savannas, water, land use, wildlife and associated challenges, including climate change, biodiversity loss and disease transmission between wildlife and livestock.
“We were given a 25-year contract. We look forward to continuing sponsorship of this trophy for the next 15 years or so. The tournament for this year may be over, but the fight against poaching, drug abuse and unemployment continues—with sport at the forefront,” said Mr Mpala.
RCCL chief executive officer, Mr Ndodana Masuku, said the league, which runs under the motto “Giving poaching a red card”, has brought together a huge crowd to create awareness about wildlife conservation through sport.
“A significant gathering of around 500 people has converged here, effectively diverting potential poachers and keeping them engaged. It’s been a huge success, with a noticeable decline in crime and poaching activities in the area. Since the founding of RCCL in 2021, communities in Dete have supported the initiative to stop poaching together and curb drug and substance abuse.
“It’s true to acknowledge that communities have seen a positive impact on the youth involved in soccer. It has kept them focused and away from trouble. We will continue to support our youth in sport to keep them away from drugs and raise awareness on poaching activities,” said Mr Masuku.
The match was a nail-biter, with Shumba Stars emerging victorious 2-0 against Cheetahs. Shalom Ndlovu was the star of the show, scoring both goals and taking home the man-of-the-match award.
BYO-HUB Trust, a collaborative community knowledge hub and research initiative, presented a kit to Shumba Stars. Both teams received medals, with Shumba Stars lifting the Cup.
