Zambian Ministry Of Tourism Holds Human-Wildlife Conflict Stakeholders Meeting

Lusaka – 13/08/2025

The Ministry of Tourism today convened a multi-stakeholder meeting at Radison Blu Hotel in Lusaka to address the growing challenge of Human-Wildlife Conflict (HWC) in Zambia.

The meeting brought together representatives from government ministries, traditional leaders, cooperating partners, conservation organisations, community resource boards and the private sector to discuss practical solutions to ensure the safety and livelihoods of communities living near wildlife areas, while safeguarding the country’s biodiversity.

Speaking during the opening session, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, Mr. Evans Muhanga said the Government is committed to finding balanced solutions that protect both human lives and wildlife.

"Human-wildlife conflict is not merely an environmental challenge it is a social, economic and developmental issue. We must address it in a way that ensures harmony between people and wildlife while promoting tourism and rural development.

Through the Department of National Parks and Wildlife, we are strengthening early warning systems, increasing community awareness, and supporting innovative deterrent methods to reduce conflict," Mr. Muhanga said.

Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW) Director, Dominic Chiinda, reaffirmed the department’s role as first responders in mitigating conflict situations.

"Our teams, including village scouts and community resource boards, are on the frontline every day. We are enhancing rapid response capacity, introducing non-lethal deterrents such as chilli-based repellents, and working closely with traditional leaders to create safe zones for both people and wildlife," the DNPW Director said.

Cooperating partners, including international conservation NGOs and development agencies, shared best practices and pledged continued support for Zambia’s Human Wildlife Conflict mitigation efforts. They emphasised the need for:

-Long-term investment in community-led conservation initiatives.

-Greater integration of local knowledge in wildlife management.

-Strengthened cross-border collaboration to address migratory wildlife challenges.

-Support for research and innovation in HWC prevention technologies.

-Development of a National Human-Wildlife Conflict Strategy.

The meeting further agreed that the solutions to human-wildlife conflict requires a united approach for all voices to be heard and ensures that future actions are not only government-led but co-owned by communities, conservationists and the private sector.

The Ministry described the meeting as a milestone in Zambia’s ongoing efforts to balance conservation goals with community needs, adding that the resolutions made will guide both immediate and long-term interventions in HWC management

The meeting concluded with stakeholders agreeing to develop a set of joint recommendations to guide immediate and long-term action on HWC management, aligned with Zambia’s conservation and tourism objectives.

Issued by

Nelly Banda

Principal Public Relations Officer

Ministry of Tourism

Banda.Nelly@mot.gov.zm

 

Zim Tourism Minister claims country reached US$5 million tourism economy target in 2024 while launching US$10 million target for 2030

 (8th August 2025)

At the recent launch of the controversial 2025-2030 Tourism and Hospitality Industry Policy in Harare the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality, Barbara Rwodzi, is reported as claiming that the country had achieved its target of a US$5 billion tourism economy in 2024 while announcing an ambitious target of US$10 million by 2030.

“We already surpassed the USD5 billion mark in 2024. Starting today until 2030, as this policy is for 2025 to 2030, we have challenged ourselves with a USD10 billion cap. The USD5 billion was supposed to be reached in 2025, but we have already surpassed it, and we are challenging ourselves to double that.” (ConserveZim, 4th August 2025)

The Zimbabwe Tourism Authority review for the year, however, indicated that the sector generated only US$1.18 billion to the national economy in 2024, against US$1.16 billion in 2023 and pre-pandemic highs of US$1.24 billion in 2019 (Zimbabwe Tourism Authority, 2025). Investments in the tourism sector recovered US$190.5 million in 2024, up from US$172.2 million in 2023, but still down on the figure of US$312.5 million recorded in 2022 (Zimbabwe Tourism Authority, 2024).

The claim that the target had been reached was first made by Deputy Tourism Minister Tongai Mnangagwa, a nephew of the President, in August 2024.

“Speaking in Victoria Falls this Saturday, Tourism and Hospitality Industry Deputy Minister Tongai Mnangagwa said the tourism industry had surpassed its target for a US$5 billion industry by 2025 but was being hampered by under-declaring of transaction by operators.

“‘In my personal capacity we have actually passed the US$5 billion industry. The Challenge is that our operators don’t declare actual figures on occupancy because they want to cut down that 2 percent that they remit to Zimbabwe Tourism Authority but if you look at numbers we have actually surpassed the target,’ he said.” (Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs, 18th August 2024)

The claim comes as the new 2025-2030 Tourism and Hospitality Industry Policy granted sweeping powers to the Tourism minister. 

"Clause 9 allows the minister to issue binding policy directives to the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA), effectively undermining its independence. Further clauses give the minister control over the Tourism Fund (Clause 18), authority to designate tourist facilities (Clause 22), and the final say in appeal processes (Clause 42)... Under Clause 11, the minister is designated as the trustee of the Zimbabwe Tourism Fund, with control over disbursement of grants - yet the bill lacks any mechanisms for public accountability, reporting, or independent auditing of the fund’s expenditures." (news.pindula.co.zw, 4th August 2025)

The new Tourism Bill has been described by investigative  journalist Hopewell Chin’ono as "a looter’s charter," which will entrench corruption, enable political cronyism, and suffocate small operators in the tourism sector.

"This Tourism Bill cloaks control and patronage in the language of reform. It concentrates power in the hands of the tourism minister, giving her broad, unchecked authority to government-appointed officers, and burdens operators with red tape while empowering a controversial state company to dominate the industry. It is a perfect law for cronyism and a nightmare for tourism growth in Zimbabwe." (news.pindula.co.zw, 4th August 2025)

 

Ministry warns residents from provoking elephants

 MINISTRY OF TOURISM WARNS AGAINST DELIBERATE IRRITATION OF ELEPHANTS – CALLS FOR RESPONSIBLE BEHAVIOUR AROUND WILDLIFE

Lusaka, Thursday, 24th July 2025

The Ministry of Tourism has noted with serious concern a video circulating on social media showing individuals deliberately provoking elephants in Livingstone. Such behaviour agitates elephants and compromises public safety.

We, therefore, wish to categorically warn members of the public, especially those living in or visiting areas where elephants and other wild animals are present, against deliberately irritating or provoking wildlife by shouting, chasing or throwing objects at them. Generally, elephants are calm but wild and dangerous animals that, when provoked, can become aggressive and cause fatal harm to humans or damage to property.

In this enlightment, the Ministry wishes to remind the public that:

1. Wild animals must be treated with respect and caution. They are not to be approached, taunted, or interacted with for entertainment purposes.

2. Deliberate provocation of wildlife constitutes an offense under the Zambia Wildlife Act and may result in prosecution, fines, or imprisonment of perpetrators.

3. Provocation of elephants may cause loss of human life and other fatalities and may result in the unnecessary killing of animals that were otherwise peaceful, all due to human recklessness.

We urge communities and individuals to take the following safety measures seriously:

- Keep a safe distance of more than 50m from the elephants and all wildlife.

- Do not attempt to feed, chase, or mock animals.

- Report any stray or threatening animal activity to the Department of National Parks and Wildlife immediately.

- Educate children and visitors about the importance of wildlife conservation and the need for co-existence.

The Ministry, through the Department of National Parks and Wildlife, continues to work with communities and stakeholders to promote coexistence between humans and wildlife. However, this can only be successful if all citizens play their part by acting responsibly and respectfully toward our natural heritage.

Let us remember that wildlife is a national treasure and must be protected not provoked.

Issued by

Nelly Banda Principal

Public Relations Officer

Ministry of Tourism

Banda.Nelly@mot.gov.zm

See also:

The Elephant Whisperers of Livingstone (worldpressphoto.org, 2025)

Curfew in Livingstone (nhm.ac.uk, 2024)

When hungry elephants and people clash (March 2025)

Over 100 elephants have migrated into Livingstone, DNPW warns (April 2025)

Roaming elephants a giant headache for Zambia (April 2025)

Elephant kills wildlife accountant in Livingstone (June 2025)

Victoria Falls: New vision for accessibility, experience development

(The Zambian Post, 22 July 2025)

Opinion Piece by Kaluwe Libingi

As proud custodians of one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World - Mosi-oa-Tunya (Victoria Falls), we must continue to strike a thoughtful balance between preservation and innovation. 

While we rightly appreciate the National Heritage Commission's efforts to maintain the natural integrity of the falls, we must also ask: can modern technology enhance the visitor's experience without compromising environmental values? The answer, I believe, is yes.

The Victoria Falls area already has man-made features such as the iconic Victoria Falls Bridge and the Knife Edge Bridge, which blend harmoniously with the natural surroundings,

Building upon this precedent, I propose a transformative upgrade: replacing the current Knife Edge Bridge with a glass-bottom 'cracking' bridge, like those popular in Chine.

These thrilling structures, with their optical illusions of cracking glass, provide safe yet unforgettable adrenaline-filled experiences for tourists.

Imagine walking above the gorge, with the thundering Zambezi beneath your feet, adding an exhilarating layer to the visual and emotional experience of the falls.

It is an innovation that would not only attract global attention but also increase Zambia's tourist revenues and elevate our standing on the international tourism map.

More importantly, our tourism model must become inclusive. Currently, the path to the Boiling Pot, a unique vantage point at the bottom of the falls, is steep and treacherous.

This effectively excludes the elderly, the disabled, and families with young children from experiencing one of the most spectacular views of the falls.

This exclusion contradicts our national values of inclusively and equity.

I propose the construction of a scenic elevator built discreetly into the gorge wall, offering safe, comfortable, and breathtaking access to the boiling pot as seen here in China.

This development would serve not only as a practical solution for accessibility but also as an added tourist feature in itself.

Imagine a panoramic lift offering unmatched views of the gorge as it descends down the boiling pot.

Livingstone town, as the gateway to the Victoria Falls, holds immense untapped potential in my view.

With a functioning international airport, proximity to wildlife, and the unique geography of Kazungual Four-Border Point, Livingstone can be transformed into a regional magnet for investment, tourism and luxury living.

A portion of land on the outskirts could be carefully developed into high-profile residential plots marketed to international celebrities, entrepreneurs and eco-conscious investors seeking privacy and prestige.

These developments would not only inject foreign currency into the local economy but also uplift the profile and real estate value of Livingstone itself.

A holiday home in Livingstone could very well become the 'African retreat' equivalent to a villa in Tuscany or a chalet in the Swiss Alps.

To connect all these innovations, let us dream even further

We already have luxury trains like Royal Livingstone Express and Rovos Rail gracing our tracks.

Why not extend the existing luxury train line from Victoria Falls to Kasane, offering tourists a seamless journey from Zambia to Botswana's wildlife sanctuaries?

This rail extension (renovating the Mulobezi rail track and extending it to Kazungula) would not only complement Kazungula Bridge but also position the Victoria Falls region as a multi-country experience hub, boosting regional cooperation and joint tourism ventures.

It is time we dared to dream.

With careful planning, environmental assessments, and partnerships with local and international stakeholders, Victoria Falls can remain a majestic natural wonder while evolving into a global powerhouse.

By embracing accessibility, modern infrastructure, and visionary development, Zambia can ensure that the falls remain relevant, inclusive, and competitive on the world stage for generations to come.

The author is an international educator currently teaching in China, licensed in British Columbia, Canada, with a doctorate in business administration.

Source: Victoria Falls: New vision for accessibility, experience development (22/07/25)

Unesco World Heritage Committee endorses Mosi-Oa-Tunya/Victoria Falls Declaration

 THE Unesco World Heritage Committee has officially adopted the draft decision on the progress report on the World Heritage Convention and Sustainable Development, acknowledging the Mosi-Oa-Tunya/Victoria Falls Declaration on World Heritage and Sustainable Development in Africa.

The milestone was reached on Saturday last week during the committee's meeting in Paris, France.

The declaration emphasises that Africa's cultural and natural heritage should catalyse sustainable development, peace-building and the promotion of human dignity.

It calls for integrating heritage into national development plans and highlights the importance of empowering communities as custodians and co-managers of heritage.

Zambia's nature expert on the World Heritage Committee, Kagosi Mwamulowe, presented amendments to the draft decision, which were supported by Kenya, Rwanda, Senegal and Zimbabwe.

“The declaration will serve as a foundation for fostering sustainable development projects that will transform the livelihoods of local communities in and around world heritage sites in Africa, while showcasing Victoria Falls as a sustainable tourism model,” Mwamulowe said.

He said the declaration aimed to promote Africa's cultural and natural heritage as a catalyst for sustainable development, peace-building and human dignity.

The committee's adoption of the amended decision requires the World Heritage Centre and advisory bodies to support African State parties in implementing the declaration, subject to the availability of budgetary resources.

However, the Victoria Falls World Heritage Site faces increasing threats from individual and cumulative infrastructural developments.

Unesco's report warns that the site's outstanding universal values could be considered in danger if current development proposals proceed without proper consideration for the environment.

The proposed Batoka Gorge Hydro Electric Scheme has given rise to concerns about its potential impact on the ecological status of the Victoria Falls.

Unesco's World Heritage Committee also called on State parties to revise the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment in line with the Guidance and Toolkit for Impact Assessments in a World Heritage Context.

The Victoria Falls World Heritage Site is also threatened by tourism infrastructural development, noise pollution and waste management issues.

Effective regulation and control of tourism development pressures will be crucial for site managers.

The Joint Integrated Management Plan for the property is being revised to incorporate necessary safeguards and thresholds to mitigate against developmental pressures for the protection of the property's outstanding universal value.

The Unesco World Heritage Committee also expressed concern over the increasing tourism infrastructural development pressures within and around the property, including the start of the construction of the Mosi-oa-Tunya Livingstone Resort Hotel within the buffer zone of the property.

The committee called on State parties to halt further activities until further consultation with the World Heritage Centre and IUCN have taken place and all relevant environmental and social impact assessments have been submitted to the World Heritage Centre and reviewed by IUCN.

It further indicated that the potential impacts of the infrastructural developments on the outstanding universal values of the property should also be adequately assessed.

Source: Unesco World Heritage Committee endorses Mosi-Oa-Tunya/Victoria Falls Declaration (17/07/25)

Zimbabwe's ex-foreign minister Walter Mzembi jailed after spending years in South Africa

 A court in Zimbabwe has dismissed Zimbabwe’s former foreign affairs minister Walter Mzembi’s application challenging his placement on remand, extending his detention.

State-owned The Herald newspaper reported that Harare regional magistrate Donald Ndirowei has dismissed Mzembi’s application challenging his placement on remand.

The matter was postponed to Friday where a date of trial is expected to be allocated.

Authorities in the post-Robert Mugabe-era have issued warrants of arrest against Mzembi since 2008, after the long-time ruler, Mugabe, was unceremoniously removed from power.

The Herald reported that the court has recently confirmation of three outstanding warrants of arrest against Mzembi, who has previously held different cabinet posts in Mugabe’s regime. 

Mzembi, the 61-year-old former Masvingo South Member of Parliament, was arrested on June 14 when he, in a surprise move, returned to Zimbabwe from his base in South Africa, where he had stayed for around seven years.

When he left Zimbabwe in 2018, Mzembi was on bail, and he had convinced the Harare authorities that he needed urgent cancer treatment from experts in South Africa. He never returned home to face trial on serious charges of corruption and criminal abuse of office.

In 2021, State media in Zimbabwe reported that the government of Zimbabwe was awaiting a response from their South African counterparts following a request to have Mzembi to Harare for trial on theft and fraud charges.

At the time, Mzembi was accused of criminal abuse of duty, and theft of trust funds involving US$847 000 (more than R15 million). The crimes were allegedly committed while Mzembi was minister of tourism and hospitality, and was spearheading Zimbabwe’s co-hosting of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation Conference in August 2013.

Source: Zimbabwe's ex-foreign minister Walter Mzembi jailed after spending years in South Africa (15/07/25)

Zimbabwe Tourism Industry Struggles with a Forty Million US Dollar Revenue Loss in the First Quarter of 2025

 Zimbabwe’s tourism industry is grappling with significant losses, having faced nearly US\$40 million in potential revenue cuts during the first quarter of 2025. This setback is a result of investor departures, ongoing economic instability, and a decrease in consumer spending, undermining one of the country’s most vital economic sectors.

Official reports indicate a substantial 16% drop in tourism revenue, with receipts declining from US\$241 million in the same period last year to US\$202 million. This translates to a daily revenue loss of over US\$440,000, marking the worst performance since the pandemic halted global travel. The sharp decline raises doubts about Zimbabwe’s goal of reaching US\$5 billion in annual tourism revenue, as investor confidence continues to falter, and funding for local tourism operators remains scarce.

The Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) reported a 9% decrease in international arrivals, with the number of foreign visitors dropping to 336,369. Domestic tourism also experienced a significant 18% decline, falling from nearly two million last year to 1.6 million. The situation worsens with a US\$2 million decline in new tourism investments, as operators struggle with high interest rates and a reduced consumer spending power.

The 16% decline in tourism revenue has had a direct impact on the country’s GDP, lowering it by 0.09%. With the tourism sector’s multiplier effect estimated at 3.2, the economy is potentially losing up to US$125 million, which represents approximately 0.3% of GDP. This downturn threatens Zimbabwe’s 2025 GDP growth target of 5%, with projections suggesting it could fall to 3.8% if the trend continues.

Amid the national downturn, Victoria Falls remains a bright spot. The region saw only a slight decline in performance, with hotel occupancy rates dropping by less than 2% compared to the previous year. Both large-scale hotels and smaller businesses reported positive results.

Nevertheless, overall national hotel occupancy has fallen to 37%, a decline from 39% last year, signaling a reduction in demand across the country. ZTA data further highlights stark regional differences. European arrivals dropped by 35%, with even steeper declines from Nordic countries (65%), Switzerland (46%), and Italy (43%). Visitors from Oceania, primarily Australia and New Zealand, also saw a significant 51% reduction, possibly linked to challenges in air travel connectivity.

In contrast, Asia showed positive growth. The number of tourists from Malaysia rose by 135%, Japan saw an 86% increase, and China/Hong Kong experienced a 26% boost. These gains may be due to improved bilateral relations or the resumption of direct flights between Zimbabwe and key Asian nations.

The decline in tourism reflects deeper structural issues that need to be addressed. High visa fees, negative perceptions of the country, expensive travel costs, and underdeveloped infrastructure are significant barriers to tourism growth. While improvements to airports are important, factors such as safety, clean water, reliable electricity, and good governance are critical to fostering a successful tourism sector.

This tourism downturn is part of a broader economic struggle. Despite an increase in mining output, foreign exchange earnings from the sector fell by 27% in the first quarter of 2025, leading to a loss of US\$204 million in potential inflows. Weak global commodity prices and logistical challenges are contributing factors to this decline.

Business sentiment is also deteriorating, with companies expressing frustration over the high cost of credit and the scarcity of affordable financing. Reports indicate that lending rates ranging from 40% to 47% are putting a strain on businesses, exacerbating the economic challenges.

As neighboring countries like South Africa experience a rebound in tourism, Zimbabwe faces the risk of falling further behind unless immediate reforms are enacted.

Zimbabwe’s tourism sector is at a crossroads, navigating a tough period with an uncertain road to recovery ahead. The challenges remain significant, and only time will tell if the country can overcome this economic turbulence.

Source: Zimbabwe Tourism Industry Strorty Million US Dollar Revenue Loss in the First Quarter of 2025, as Economic Turmoil and Investor Exodus Threaten Future Growth (07/07/25)

Accor enters Zimbabwe with Novotel Victoria Falls deal

 French hospitality giant Accor has announced its entry into Zimbabwe with the signing of a deal for the proposed Novotel Victoria Falls, marking the group’s first hotel brand in the country.

The agreement was formalised during the Future Hospitality Summit Africa that ended in South Africa on Thursday, positioning Accor as a first mover in one of Africa’s most iconic tourism destinations.

“This signing represents a bold step forward in our development strategy for Sub-Saharan Africa,” said Maya Ziade, Accor’s chief development officer for the region.

He described Victoria Falls as one of the world’s most extraordinary destinations and noted that the group is “proud to bring the Novotel brand experience to Zimbabwe for the very first time.”

“As a first mover, we see this project as a gateway to long-term sustainable growth in the country.”

Scheduled to open in 2028, the 111-room hotel will be developed in partnership with Eagle Real Estate Investment Trust and located in the Eagle Heights precinct, overlooking the Masuwe River.

The property will feature an outdoor pool, kids’ club and all-day dining, tailored to modern travellers seeking comfort and local immersion.

Eagle Asset Managers managing director Bevin Ngara said welcome the partnership with Accor, saying it will bring an international standard of hospitality to Victoria Falls.

“This project reflects our vision of investing in transformative developments that elevate tourism and deliver value to local communities and investors alike.”

The move comes amid rising regional and domestic tourism in Zimbabwe, with Victoria Falls increasingly positioned as a year-round destination.

Victoria Falls – known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya or “The Smoke That Thunders” – is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.

Beyond its dramatic waterfall, the resort town is a magnet for adventure tourism, offering white-water rafting, bungee jumping and helicopter tours.

With over 590 Novotel properties worldwide, the Accor’s debut in Zimbabwe is expected to elevate the country’s hospitality offering and support its broader tourism growth strategy.

Source: Accor enters Zimbabwe with Novotel Victoria Falls deal (20/06/25)

New Report on Victoria Falls Contested Conservation Zone

Keep Victoria Falls Wild, June 2025

A new report, commissioned by Keep Victoria Falls Wild, reviews the protections given under the UNESCO World Heritage Listing and concludes the south-bank riverine fringe, and site of the controversial Baines Restaurant development, is located within the 'Highly Ecologically Sensitive Zone' which affords the maximum level of protection under the Listing - and prevents all new infrastructure development.

Keep Victoria Falls Wild (June 2025) Special Report on the Riverine Fringe (pdf download, 1.8mb)

The text of the 2016 Joint Integrated Management Plan (JIMP), the latest approved plan covering the management of the World Heritage Site, definitively places riverine fringe above the Falls as being within the Highly Ecologically Sensitive Zone (HESZ). (Following quote annotated with additional details in block brackets for clarity).

(i) Highly Ecologically Sensitive Zone (Block 6) - Starting from... the Victoria Falls Bridge, thence north-westwards following the [fenced boundary of VFNP Area B along the road corridor past the] Victoria Falls Rainforest [entrance, following this boundary round to the turning off of the riverside road known as ‘Zambezi Drive’], thence up the Zambezi River [along the line of the road], covering the riverine vegetation strip to where it joins the Zambezi National Park boundary.” (State Parties, 2016, p.29/90)

Map showing boundary of Victoria Falls World Heritage Site management zones.

(click image for larger jpg version - 1 mb).

The report concludes "To interpret the zonation covering the riparian fringe as anything other than within the HESZ would be to conflict with the 2016 JIMP as well as with over 100 years of conservation and protection of the Falls environment... Questions need be asked as to how and why the National Park Director General, then Dr Fulton Mangwanya, could believe that this area was within the MESZ in his approval letter for the Baines Restaurant development (ZPWMA, June 2021). It is beyond belief to imagine that this was a simple mistake or oversight." (KVFW, 2025)

The report also highlights a history of manipulation of information presented in reports to UNESCO and dilution of protections to give false legitimacy to tourism developments in the south-bank (Zimbabwean) upstream riverine corridor (KVFW 2023a, 2024). These include the area of the upstream ZNP missing from the 2007 JIMP map and text descriptions, and which subsequently saw the development of the Victoria Falls River Lodge (opened in 2012), before being confirmed as being within the HESZ in the 2016 JIMP (despite which the area also saw the development of the Old Drift Lodge in 2018). In a second example the area of the upstream riverine fringe surrounding the Elephant Hills Golf Course, identified as being within the HESZ in the 2007 JIMP, is demoted to the MESZ in the map and text descriptions presented in the 2016 JIMP, without the changes being justified or explained, despite commitments by State Parties not to dilute the protections of the WHS. This area is now under threat from the proposed 'Tree Lodge' development.

In addition the report identifies the persistent failure of State Parties to report proposed developments and submit thorough independent ESIA (Environmental and Social Impact Assessment) documents to UNESCO for comment before they are approved.

The report calls for the closure and removal of all illegitimate developments within the World Heritage Site HESZ and a full investigation into how these developments were allowed by the Zimbabwean National Park Authority.

Read More

Keep Victoria Falls Wild (2023a) 2023 State of Development Final Report.

Keep Victoria Falls Wild (2023b) Spotlight on Baines Restaurant.

Keep Victoria Falls Wild (2024) 2024 State of Development Final Report.

Keep Victoria Falls Wild (2025) Special Report on the Riverine Fringe (pdf download, 1.8mb)

State Parties (2016) 2016-2021 Victoria Falls/Mosi-oa-Tunya World Heritage Site Joint Integrated Management Plan. [Available to download from the UNESCO World Heritage website here.]

Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (June 2021) Application (former Railway Water-Pump Station, Victoria Falls Long Term Lease. Letter from Dr F U Mangwanya, Director-General, ZPWMA, 22 June 2021, Document Q6; Appendix A. [Available to download from KVFW website here.].

Zida courts investors for US$150m Victoria Falls project

 The Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency (ZIDA) is actively seeking both local and international investors to participate in the development of Lot 1 of Jafuta Estate, a flagship project within the Masuwe Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Victoria Falls. This ambitious initiative, owned by the Mosi oa Tunya Development Company, covers 271.5 hectares and was officially declared a Special Economic Zone on September 28, 2018, with the aim of establishing a world-class tourism and financial services hub.

The Masuwe SEZ is designed to enhance tourism-related activities by integrating tourism, recreational, and sporting facilities with commercial, medical, and conference centres, alongside an international finance centre and other complementary developments. Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe's premier tourism destination, offers an ideal backdrop for this project, which seeks to address the current shortage of high-quality amenities needed to support the growing tourism sector.

The development of Lot 1 involves extensive infrastructure work, including the construction of roads, water and sewer systems, power grids, and telecommunication networks to support the growth of the zone. Plans also include the building of new villas, lodges, and holiday homes, as well as a tourism and hospitality school aimed at nurturing local talent in the sector.

Commercial and financial services form a major part of the project, with the establishment of a commercial centre featuring retail spaces, office buildings, and an international financial services centre designed to attract global businesses. The project further incorporates two medical centres, a golf course, and a multi-purpose international cricket stadium, with construction of the stadium already underway.

The total estimated cost of the project is approximately US$150 million. Core infrastructure is expected to cost about US$81.6 million, while medical centres will require US$15.9 million. The construction of villas and holiday homes is projected at US$7.8 million, and the commercial and financial services centre will need around US$17 million. The tourism and hospitality school is estimated at US$10.7 million, the golf course at US$10 million, and the cricket stadium at US$7.5 million.

ZIDA is highlighting the project's potential to create significant employment opportunities, boost local economies, and position Zimbabwe as a competitive player in the global tourism and financial services markets. To attract investors, the agency is offering various incentives, including tax breaks, streamlined regulatory processes, and guaranteed repatriation of profits.

With its strategic location, comprehensive development plan, and strong financial incentives, Lot 1 of Jafuta Estate presents a prime opportunity for investors seeking to capitalise on Zimbabwe's expanding tourism and financial sectors.

Source: Zida courts investors for US$150m Victoria Falls project (02/06/2025)

Zimbabwe And Zambia Renew Investor Search For Batoka Gorge Project

 Zimbabwe and Zambia, through the Zambezi River Authority (ZRA), have revived the Batoka Gorge Hydropower Project, a 2,400-megawatt facility planned downstream of Victoria Falls, which remains one of their most ambitious initiatives.

First proposed in 1992, the site, about 54 kilometres below the falls, was identified for its hydroelectric potential.

Backed by early feasibility studies from the World Bank, the project was meant to boost power supply for Zimbabwe and Zambia and reduce regional energy shortages.

However, progress stalled due to strained international relations, environmental concerns, and a lack of funding.

The project was dormant until 2012, when renewed interest led to a 2014 memorandum of understanding between Zimbabwe and Zambia.

The African Development Bank supported updated studies, and in 2019, General Electric (GE) of the United States and Power Construction Corporation of China were awarded the contract under a build-operate-transfer model.

However, the COVID-19 pandemic, questions over procurement transparency, and Zambia’s 2023 withdrawal from the deal further derailed progress.

ZRA is now intensifying efforts to attract new investors to the Batoka Gorge project.

ZRA Chief Executive Officer Munyaradzi Munodawafa confirmed that a dedicated project team has been established to spearhead the resource mobilisation campaign. He said:

The ZRA has formed a team that will court investors in the proposed 2,400-megawatt facility. This facility will be located near the World Heritage Site, Victoria Falls.

He said the resource mobilisation drive is expected to run for the next 12 to 18 months, depending on investor interest, market conditions, and ongoing political backing from both Zimbabwean and Zambian governments.

Zambia and Zimbabwe have also set a September 2025 deadline to pick new bidders, following the cancellation of the 2019 deal.

Source: Zimbabwe And Zambia Renew Investor Search For Batoka Gorge Project (1/6/25)

Zimbabwe's Tourism Revival Falters

(26th May 2025, updated 8th June)

The Zimbabwe Tourism Authority Tourism Trends and Statistics Report for 2024 records a meagre one percent growth in national tourism arrivals against 2023, following a 54 percent rise in 2023 over 2022 (Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs, 4th June 2024). 

The report records 1,613,901 national tourism arrivals over 2024 against 1,602,781 in 2023 (Zimbabwe Tourism Authority, 2025). The figures are a reality check for over-ambitious government plans to develop of US$5 billion tourism economy by 2025, a core part of the National Tourism Recovery and Growth Strategy. 

The figures mark a sudden pause in the country's post-Covid recovery, with levels still significantly short of pre-pandemic highs of 2,579,974 arrivals recorded in 2019, while global tourism levels have largely recovered to pre-pandemic levels in 2024. Across the river Zambia recorded a record 2,199,820 foreign arrivals over 2024, a 35.3% increase on the 1,392,153 international arrivals recorded in 2023.

Breakdown of the Zimbabwe figures for 2024 record 217,017 European arrivals (against 208,710 in 2023), 134,879 from the Americas (121,953 in 2023), 100,637 Asian arrivals (99,638), 51,153 from Oceania (29,979) and 7,042 from the Middle East (8,960). Oceania markets (Pacific island region, including Australia and New Zealand) recorded a significant increase of 71% against 2023, with traditional markets such as Europe and the Americas recording only small percentage increases.

Zimbabwe Immigration data, however, recorded just 267,845 self-identified tourist or 'leisure' visitors (with 453,091 arrivals identified as 'in transit,' 456,061 visiting friends and relatives and 281,299 on business).

The sector is estimated to have generated approximately US$1.18 billion in 2024, reflecting a 2% increase from the US$1.16 billion recorded in 2023, but still a long way short of government ambitions for a US$5 billion tourism economy by 2025.

Additional figures show the south-bank Victoria Falls visitor park (the 'rainforest') received 394,681 visitors over 2024, against 302,626 in 2023, including 295,084 international visitors. The total for 2024 is just short of the record of 397,436 visitors to the Falls recorded in 2019, indicating that tourism to the Falls has recovered to pre-Covid levels. The Zambezi National Park recorded 202,618 visitors, up on the 170,605 visitors in 2023. Jointly, the Victoria Falls and Zambezi National Park recorded a combined 597,299 visitors. 

Despite branding itself under the banner 'A World of Wonders,' Zimbabwe's national tourism strategy has increasingly focused on exploiting the Victoria Falls as its sole focus, neglecting once well established tourism centres across the country, such as the Matopas, Kariba, Hwange and the Eastern Highlands. Across the country, Zimbabwe's National Parks recorded at total of 998,877 visitors, with visitors to the Falls and Zambezi National Parks accounting for 59.8 percent of this total. Figures for foreign visitors show an even stronger dominance, with the Falls and Zambezi National Parks receiving 435,191 international visitors against a national total of 497,149, or 87.5 percent.

The Baines Factor

The country's over-reliance on overseas tourist arrivals to Victoria Falls also increases the tourism sectors' sensitivity to negative international headlines regarding the over-development of the Falls and negative impacts on the UNESCO World Heritage Site caused by contested tourism developments such as the Baines Restaurant, constructed within the WHS 'no new development' zone during 2022/3 and generating widespread negative headlines and legal challenges against its development (KVFW, 2023, 2024). Three years later the legal case remains to be heard and the Baines Restaurant remains open for business, while the country's reputation as responsible custodians of the Victoria Falls World Heritage Site hangs in the balance.

References

Keep Victoria Falls Wild (September 2023) Spotlight on Baines Restaurant. 11th September (revised). (pdf download)

Keep Victoria Falls Wild (July 2024) 2024 State of Development Final Report (pdf download)

Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (2025) Tourism Trends and Statistics 2024. (pdf download)

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (4th June 2024) Focus On Victoria Falls As Unrealistic Government Target Drives Unsuitable Development Rush.

US$43million Victoria Falls project takes shape

 ZIMRE Holdings Limited (ZHL) has commenced construction of the highly anticipated US$43 million Eagle Heights Mixed-Use Development in Victoria Falls, under the Eagle Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT).

This project is expected to create numerous job opportunities for the local community in the resort town.
Located on a 12,3-hectare site, Eagle Heights is set to transform the tourism capital into a modern investment precinct with a combination of hospitality, medical, retail, and residential infrastructure.

Civil works comprising roads and storm-water drainage are nearing completion, with 95 percent of this phase already done.
The project is a major milestone in the country’s drive to position Victoria Falls as a Special Economic Zone for tourism and offshore financial services. Backed by early-stage investor commitments of US$24 million, Eagle Heights is set to redefine the city’s urban landscape with a blend of tourism, hospitality, health, retail and residential developments.

Unveiling the progress during the listing of the Eagle REIT on Friday, ZHL Chairman Mr Desmond Matete said the development marks a key step in the company’s infrastructure rollout strategy while supporting national priorities.

“The civil works are currently underway, roads and stormwater drainage works are already being executed, and they are at 95 percent completion. These are within budget and with no loss of time or injuries. This development is targeted for completion in 36 months from the commencement of work on superstructures,” he said.

Mr Matete said the Eagle Heights project aligns with the Government’s vision for Victoria Falls as a high-impact investment zone.

“We are responding to the Government’s policy of designating Victoria Falls as a Special Economic Zone for tourism and offshore financial services.

“The REIT enables us to pool resources and crowd in other investors to realise this vision,” he said.
Eagle Heights development sits on 12,3 hectares and includes a 120-key internationally branded mid-scale hotel (US$25,5 million), a 36-bed high-end tourism hospital (US$8,1 million), a service station (US$1,5 million), and 154 mid-range residential units (US$7,7 million)

These developments are tailored to serve tourists, business travellers, and patients seeking top-tier medical services.
This project follows the successful completion of the US$12,7 million Phase One of the REIT’s Mazowe development.
That phase includes a shopping centre and residential apartments, currently being handed over to tenants with an anticipated yield of six percent.

Zimpapers visited the Victoria Falls construction site and observed several complementary developments underway in the vicinity, including a new cricket stadium in Masuwe, part of preparations for hosting the ICC Cricket World Cup in 2027.
The Government has allocated 271,5 hectares in Masuwe, from a total of 1  200 hectares, to stimulate investment in upmarket tourism and support infrastructure.

Mr Matete said these ongoing developments dovetail well with the Eagle Heights project.
He said their mid-scale hotel and tourism hospital will support the area’s growing demand for hospitality and health services.
ZHL chief executive officer, Mr Stanley Kudenga, said the Eagle REIT projects are already delivering social and economic value.

“Mazowe Project has created 120 local jobs, while Eagle Heights peaked at 275 local jobs during the civil works phase alone. In total, the Eagle REIT will create between 500 and 900 construction jobs, including 450 post-construction jobs,” he said.
Mr Kudenga noted that Mazowe is evolving into a key satellite town for Harare, while Eagle Heights will become a new precinct in Victoria Falls.

“The residential offerings at Eagle Heights are premium and tailored to support the hospitality sector. The combined developments — 108 villas and 54 apartments — will add at least 550 new hospitality beds to the city,” he said.

Mr Kudenga said through the Eagle REIT, ZHL is playing a critical role in shaping Victoria Falls’ future by delivering catalytic developments that align with National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1: 2021–2025), the upcoming NDS2 (2026–2030) and Vision 2030, which aims to position Zimbabwe as an upper middle-income economy by the end of the decade.

Victoria Falls was granted city status in 2019, driven largely by its tourism potential and growing investment profile. To accelerate growth, the Government designated it a Special Economic Zone in 2020, focusing on tourism, finance, and infrastructure development.

The Eagle Heights project comes as part of this broader vision to transform the city into a smart, globally competitive urban hub.

Mr Kudenga said the tourism hospital would fill a critical gap in medical services in the region, while the overall development would enhance Victoria Falls’ appeal as an international investment and tourism hub.

ZHL has previously contributed to infrastructure in Victoria Falls through projects such as the Sawanga Mall, which houses banks, offices and retail firms, and played a major role in the city attaining municipal status.

Source: US$43million Victoria Falls project takes shape (20/05/25)

Zambezi Helicopter Company Invests US$2.1 Million in New Victoria Falls Aviation Hub

 The Zambezi Helicopter Company (ZHC), a division of Shearwater Adventures, is nearing completion of a US$2.1 million aviation facility in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. Set to open in May 2025, the new hub in the Chinotimba Industrial Area replaces the company’s previous base near the Elephant Hills Hotel and forms part of wider efforts to support Zimbabwe’s target of growing its tourism sector to US$5 billion.

The development features an Air Management Organisation, hangars, helipads, a VIP lounge, restaurant, pilot training facilities, and maintenance services for external operators. It is expected to generate local employment and enhance operational capacity amid surging demand for helicopter tours over the falls. According to Shearwater’s Dr Clement Mukwasi, the project addresses the need for expanded infrastructure and reflects broader investment trends turning Victoria Falls into a leading African tourism destination.

Source: Zambezi Helicopter Company Invests US$2.1 Million in New Victoria Falls Aviation Hub (07/05/25)

US$2,1million into aviation project

 A tour operator in the resort town of Victoria Falls has invested over US$2 million in constructing an aviation facility aimed at enhancing the tourism industry, creating jobs, and contributing to the sector’s ambitious goal of reaching US$5 billion.

The Zambezi Helicopter Company (ZHC), part of Shearwater Adventures’ significant development, demonstrates strong confidence in Victoria Falls as a leading global investment hotspot.

This investment marks the company’s relocation from its previous site near the Elephant Hills Hotel to a new location in the Chinotimba Industrial Area. Construction began in September 2023 and has recently been completed, with final touches being made in anticipation of the official opening this month.

The ultra-modern facility includes an Air Management Organisation (AMO), an administrative block, three operational helipads, two maintenance helipads, a restaurant, a VIP lounge, briefing rooms, helicopter hangars, fuel facilities and a new road network. Additionally, the site will provide pilot training programs and helicopter maintenance services for outside companies, expected to create significant local employment opportunities.

Dr Clement Mukwasi, the public relations manager for Shearwater, explained that this development was driven by the necessity to expand operations and respond to market growth.

“The Zambezi Helicopter Company has been operating helicopters near the Elephant Hills Hotel in Victoria Falls. We have, however, now built another helipad in the Chinotimba Industrial Area,” he said.

“The new helipad was developed at a value of about US$2,1 million. This will then mean that the helicopter operations will move from near the Elephant Hills Hotel to the new site.

“The development was necessitated by our expanded operations in terms of service provision and also our expanded market. We also think that it is the best area to operate helicopters from, considering that it is in the industrial area,” said Dr Mukwasi.

He said the investor also wants to increase the services that they give to the community, which will include training of pilots while also doing repairs and maintenance of helicopters, not only belonging to the company but also for any other company in the country.

“We have since recruited more pilots. We have also increased our employment base,” said Dr Mukwasi.

He said the development is directly in line with the Government’s target of raising the value of tourism to US$5 billion.

“We have contributed US$2,1 million towards this target. We started the development in September 2023. That is when we did our environmental impact assessments and all other plans.

“We were supposed to be finishing our development by June 2025. However, as things stand, we are ahead of our schedule and we are looking forward to opening the helipad by the end of May,” said Dr Mukwasi.

He said the facility is a spectacle for everybody who wants to come through to enjoy the world in Victoria Falls.

Dr Mukwasi said they were aware that helicopter flights in general have become one of the most preferred activities in Victoria Falls, with international and domestic tourists expressing their love for the activity.

“We are confident that the destination has got a long life because we are in photography tourism, and we are not going to consume the activity that we are offering. It is an infinite product.

“Tourists have shown us, we have seen their high confidence in the destination. Equally, investors are doing the same in the country by pouring in huge investments into the redevelopment of the infrastructure,” said Dr Mukwasi.

He said they were sure that many other operators and many other hospitality players would equally follow suit and put investment into developments within the city of Victoria Falls.

Source: US$2,1million into aviation project (06/05/2025)