Victoria Falls Stadium In Zimbabwe Nears Completion

ICC inspection highlights progress across Zimbabwe’s three host cities ahead of the Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027.

Preparations for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027 are gathering pace in Zimbabwe, with the scenic Mosi-oa-Tunya International Cricket Stadium in Victoria Falls edging closer to completion following significant progress across the country’s three host cities.

Read More: Victoria Falls Stadium In Zimbabwe Nears Completion (19th October 2026)

Victoria Falls: An environment on the edge

(BBC World Service, 11 August 2026) 

The Victoria falls, on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe, is considered one of the natural wonders of the world. But as Isa Jacobson reports, there is concern that development around the waterfall could threaten the delicate ecosystem and exacerbate conflict between humans and wildlife.

TheDocumentary Podcast Victoria Falls: An environment on the edge (28 mins), available to listen and download online on the BBC website.

The programme was broadcast in the UK on 11th August 2026 on BBC Radio 4 as part of the series 'Crossing Continents' series - Victoria Falls: Wilderness on the edge (available only in the UK).

Read more on the issues highlighted in the programme on the Keep Victoria Falls Wild webiste.

Zimbabwe records rise in Victoria Falls tourist arrivals

HARARE, 11 August (BelTA - ZBC) - ZIMBABWE’S tourism sector continues to show positive growth, with new figures indicating an increase in visitor arrivals to the Victoria Falls Rainforest during the first quarter of 2026.

Official first-quarter statistics released by ZimParks reveal a steady increase in visitor arrivals to the iconic Victoria Falls Rainforest, reflecting growing confidence in Zimbabwe as a preferred travel destination and the success of ongoing tourism promotion efforts.

Visitor arrivals to the rainforest rose from more than 60 000 during the first quarter of 2025 to over 64 000 during the corresponding period in 2026.

ZimParks Public Relations Manager, Mr Luckmore Safuli, said the figures demonstrate sustained growth in the destination’s appeal.

“The first-quarter statistics demonstrate growing confidence among visitors choosing Victoria Falls as their preferred destination. We are continuously improving the visitor experience while ensuring the sustainable conservation of this unique ecosystem.

“Going forward, we expect Victoria Falls to attract more visitors, thereby contributing to Zimbabwe’s tourism growth. As ZimParks, we remain committed to ensuring that all tourists visiting this UNESCO World Heritage Site enjoy a safe and premium experience,” he said.

The performance of Victoria Falls is also being closely monitored as a key indicator of Zimbabwe’s broader tourism ambitions, with the sector identified as a strategic pillar for economic growth, foreign currency generation and regional development.

Economic analyst Mr Stevenson Dlamini said continued growth in tourist arrivals has far-reaching benefits for the economy.

“What makes these numbers important is that tourism has strong multiplier effects across the economy. Every additional tourist supports employment, creates demand for local goods and services, and generates foreign currency earnings.

“Growth at Victoria Falls therefore translates into broader economic benefits for both local communities and the national economy,” he said.

With new eco-lodges opening, increased tourism activity and conservation measures being strengthened, Victoria Falls continues to cement its position as one of Africa’s premier tourism destinations.

Tourism authorities remain confident that the positive momentum will continue throughout 2026, generating increased revenue and supporting the country’s economic development goals.

Source: Zimbabwe records rise in Victoria Falls tourist arrivals (11/08/2026)

Victoria Falls seals milestone US$66,9m tourism development deal

 GOVERNMENT and the private sector yesterday sealed a US$66,9 million Commercial Joint Venture Agreement to unlock high-value tourism development in Victoria Falls, in a major investment push expected to strengthen Zimbabwe’s position in the lucrative regional and global tourism market.

The landmark agreement, signed in Harare yesterday following Cabinet’s approval of the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) in April 2026, marks one of Zimbabwe’s most significant tourism infrastructure investments in recent years and signals growing investor confidence in the country’s tourism sector.

The agreement brings together Mosi-Oa-Tunya Development Company (MOTDC) Private Limited, the development company under the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, and Victoria Seven Investments (Private) Limited, under the J.R. Goddard Consortium, to develop bulk infrastructure at Lot 1 of the 271-hectare Jafuta Estate in the Masuwe Special Economic Zone.

More than a conventional infrastructure project, the development represents the creation of a new integrated tourism precinct designed to redefine Victoria Falls’ visitor experience, while opening vast opportunities for domestic and international investors.

The US$66,9 million investment is expected to provide essential bulk infrastructure, including water and sewer reticulation, electricity distribution and telecommunications networks – the critical backbone required to unlock a pipeline of premium tourism and commercial developments.

Once completed, the serviced estate will accommodate luxury hotels, boutique lodges, villas, chalets, holiday homes, a championship golf estate, commercial and financial centres, medical facilities, a Tourism Academy and the under-construction International Multi-purpose Cricket Stadium, creating a diversified tourism ecosystem that extends Victoria Falls’ appeal beyond its iconic natural attractions.

Industry observers say the project reflects Zimbabwe’s strategic shift from destination marketing alone to destination development, where modern infrastructure becomes the catalyst for sustainable tourism investment and long-term economic growth.

The Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry said the landmark investment directly supports President Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030 and the National Development Strategy 2.

“The landmark development advances President Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030 of an upper-middle-income society and aligns with the National Development Strategy 2 through sustainable tourism investment,” said the ministry in an update after the signing of the agreement.

Officiating at the signing ceremony on behalf of the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Honourable Barbara Rwodzi, Deputy Minister Honourable Tongai Mafidi Mnangagwa was quoted as saying the agreement was a game-changing milestone for Zimbabwe’s tourism economy.

He described the development as a transformative investment that positions tourism as a catalyst for infrastructure development, economic growth and job creation through Public-Private Partnerships.

“The complementary investments will create an integrated tourism ecosystem that enhances Victoria Falls’ competitiveness as a premier destination, while the signing marks the realisation of a vision conceived in 2012 for the Masuwe Special Economic Zone,” reads the ministry update.

The agreement also demonstrates the Government’s growing use of Public-Private Partnerships to accelerate strategic infrastructure development, while leveraging private capital to maximise the economic value of public assets.

Through the innovative model, the Government contributes land through Mosi-Oa-Tunya Development Company, enabling investors to channel capital into infrastructure and tourism facilities that generate long-term economic returns.

“Through Mosi-Oa-Tunya Development Company, the Government is leveraging land equity to unlock private sector investment that will strengthen Zimbabwe’s tourism infrastructure and investment landscape, elevate tourist experiences, stimulate inclusive economic growth and further position Victoria Falls as a leading high-value tourism and investment destination,” said the ministry.

Beyond the immediate infrastructure works, the project is expected to trigger substantial secondary investments across hospitality, real estate, retail, transport, financial services and recreation, creating thousands of jobs and strengthening linkages with local suppliers and communities.

The development also reinforces Victoria Falls’ evolution from a destination renowned solely for its natural wonder into a globally competitive tourism, sports, conference and investment hub, capable of attracting high-spending visitors and international investors.

With premium accommodation, sporting facilities, commercial services and specialised tourism infrastructure planned within one integrated precinct, the Masuwe Special Economic Zone is set to become a flagship model of sustainable tourism development in Southern Africa.

It is expected to further enhance Zimbabwe’s standing as an investment destination and position tourism as a powerful engine for inclusive economic transformation.

President Mnangagwa has consistently emphasised that tourism should be private sector-driven, community-owned, and Government-facilitated, with strategic investments such as the Masuwe Special Economic Zone expected to generate employment, attract foreign direct investment, and accelerate the attainment of Vision 2030.

Under the joint venture agreement, MOTDC will contribute 271,5 hectares of land valued at US$25,6 million as equity in kind, while the JR Goddard Consortium will invest US$66,9 million towards infrastructure development.

The shareholding structure gives MOTDC a 39 percent stake and the consortium 61 percent, with a 25-year profit recoupment period.

Source: Victoria Falls seals milestone US$66,9m tourism development deal (05/08/2026)

African Sun Gains 100 Percent Control of Victoria Falls Hotel

THE largest hotel firm in Zimbabwe, African Sun, has gained total control of the Victoria Falls Hotels following the purchase of the remaining 50% stake in the asset held by Meikles.

Also known as the Grand Old Lady of the Falls, the hotel was built in 1904 and is the oldest, most iconic resort in the region, operating as a member of The Leading Hotels of the World. It is the only hotel featuring a private, 10-minute footpath that leads guests directly to the entrance of Victoria Falls.

Since 1998, the asset was run as a 50/50 joint venture partnership with Meikles Hospitality (Private) Limited.

In a statement, Meikles said the board climbed down on its initial plans to retain interests in the asset after accepting African Sun's offer.

"The Company had initially resolved to retain the operation as part of continuing operations, but subsequently received and accepted an offer from its joint venture partner to acquire its interest in the Partnership," Meikles said.

African Sun already manages a sound portfolio of the country's leading hospitality assets such as the Elephant Hills Resort, Hwange Safari Lodge, Troutbeck Resort in Nyanga and the Holiday Inn hotels.

The hospitality group recently disposed of the Great Zimbabwe Hotel, Monomotapa Hotel and Caribbea Bay Resort to create space to focus on strategic properties.

On its part, Meikles aims to deepen its focus on retail, consumer operations, supermarkets, and agricultural interests, with management perceiving the latest transaction as a way to clean up and simplify its group structure.

Source: African Sun Gains 100 Percent Control of Victoria Falls Hotel (04/08/2026)

Stalled Bulawayo-Victoria Falls Road project gets funding

 Transport and Infrastructural Development minister Felix Mhona has admitted that the critical rehabilitation of the Bulawayo-Victoria Falls Road has stalled due to severe funding constraints and contractor capacity issues, but promised a "massive" remobilisation of workers starting this August.

The minister’s admission came during a heated National Assembly Q&A session on Wednesday, following a sharp rebuke from Lupane East legislator Siphathisiwe Machangu, who described the 440km highway as a scene of "complete abandonment".

Machangu challenged the government’s policy on allowing contractors to desert projects, leaving vital infrastructure in a dangerous and deteriorated state.

She painted a bleak picture of the current situation on the ground, noting that between Bulawayo and Lupane, and further through Jotsholo towards Hwange, not a single construction vehicle is in sight.

"The roads are just empty," Machangu told the House, demanding a clear timeline for when the "reconstruction" would resume.

In a frank response, Mhona conceded that the project had indeed "stalled". He attributed the delays to a combination of variables, including "delays in payment" from the treasury and some contractors who overrepresented their "capacity" to do the work.

He noted that in the past, some contractors anticipated upfront deposits before disappearing, though the government now requires a demonstration of capacity first.

The minister revealed a startling fiscal reality. His ministry was allocated the equivalent of only US$150 million for road projects across the entire country for the current year.

"You are the owners of the place, this august House," Mhona told the MPs. "You gave us US150 million and if we just apply it to that road [Bulawayo-Victoria Falls], it is inadequate."

Despite the budgetary shortfall, Mhona insisted the government is now "thinking outside the box" by pursuing public-private partnership (PPP) arrangements and loan facilities. He informed the House that a 750km stretch—originally starting from Beitbridge—was initially under a PPP, but the government had to intervene on the Bulawayo-Victoria Falls section specifically because it was in such a "sorry state."

To address the 440km stretch, the  ministry has engaged eight contractors, each assigned a 50km section.

While Machangu reported seeing no activity, the minister argued that some work might be hidden by detours "divorced from the main road."  He claimed that nine kilometres of the road were recently opened to traffic two and a half weeks ago.

In a significant commitment to Matabeleland North residents and the tourism sector, Mhona announced that a new infrastructure framework has been agreed upon between the Transport and Finance ministries to ensure contractors are paid.

"I want to say to Hon. Machangu, yes, watch the space and as we move towards August, you will see massive rehabilitation again," Mhona promised.

"Those contractors will be mobilised again to their various sections... you will see an accelerated pace going forward."

The state of the road remains a point of high anxiety for regional leaders. Hwange MP Daniel Bonda also weighed in, urging the ministry to ensure that even while working on specific sections, contractors must maintain detours that have become "no longer trafficable."

Mhona confirmed that current contracts now mandate routine maintenance of entire sections, including detours, to keep traffic flowing.

Source: Stalled Bulawayo-Victoria Falls Road project gets funding (02/08/26)

New Victoria Falls stadium among venues for ODI World Cup next year

 July 31 (Reuters) - A newly constructed stadium in Victoria Falls has been named among the venues for next year's 50-over World ​Cup, which Zimbabwe will co-host with South Africa and ‌Namibia, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced.

The 10,000-seat Fale Mosi-oa-Tunya International Cricket Stadium, which is expected to host domestic cricket later this ​year, is one of 12 venues selected for the ​14-team tournament. Harare and Bulawayo are Zimbabwe's other host ⁠cities.

Eight cities in South Africa will stage the bulk ​of the 57 matches scheduled for October and November, in ​what will be the first 50-over World Cup held on the continent in 24 years. Windhoek will be Namibia's sole venue.

"The ICC men's cricket ​World Cup represents the legacy and spectacle of limited-overs ​cricket," ICC chief executive Sanjog Gupta said in a statement.

"It also marks ‌the ⁠return of the pinnacle event to Africa after more than two decades and will celebrate a continent defined by extraordinary people, vibrant cultures, breathtaking experiences and deep love for sport."

The ​ICC is yet ​to share ⁠the exact schedule of matches.

Source: New Victoria Falls stadium among venues for ODI World Cup next year (31/07/2026)

Review of Conservation Concerns and World Heritage Committee Decision Text relating to Victoria Falls WHS

Keep Victoria Falls Wild, 31st July 2026

Download our issue by issue summary of conservation concerns and conclusions highlighted by the IUCN/World Heritage Centre together with final decision text adopted by the World Heritage Committee at its 48th Session held at Busan, Republic of Korea, 19-29 July 2026 relating to the Victoria Falls World Heritage Site here (direct pdf download from the KVFW website). 

‘Current Conservation Issues’ and ‘Analysis and Conclusions of the World Heritage Centre and UNESCO Advisory Body’ (IUCN), together with World Heritage Committee Draft Decision text, was published 19th June 2026 (UNESCO/World Heritage Centre, 19th June 2026; Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs, 9th July 2026; 18th July 2026), Download our pdf of original proposed draft text relating to the Site here.

Amendments to Draft Decision text proposed by Committee members Kenya, Senegal, Tanzania and Togo, published on UNESCO website 23rd July (UNESCO/World Heritage Centre, 23rd July 2026; Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs, 23rd July 2026). Download the amendments as submitted and published on 23rd July 2026 here.

Revised amendments to Draft Decision text published on UNESCO website 24th July (UNESCO/World Heritage Centre, 24th July 2026; Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs, 24th July 2026). Download the amendments as submitted and published on 24th July 2026 here.

Site originally due for discussion by Committee on 24th July, delayed until 27th July by late running and rescheduling of the agenda. See our full (unofficial) transcript of the Committee’s discussion on the Site here and audio file (mp3) here (Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs, 27th July 2026; 28th July 2026).

In introducing the discussion it was disclosed that the representatives of the African World Heritage Centre and IUCN had met with the representatives of the State Parties (Zambia and Zimbabwe) on the 23rd July to discuss the proposed amendments and resulting in the revised amendment document published on the 24th. There appears to be no published record of the discussion or decisions made at this side meeting.

References

UNESCO/World Heritage Centre (19th June 2026) Current Conservation Issues’ and ‘Analysis and Conclusions of the World Heritage Centre and UNESCO Advisory Body’ (IUCN); World Heritage Committee Draft Decision text, Mosi-oa-Tunya/Victoria Falls World Heritage Site (whc26-48com-7BAdd-en).

UNESCO/World Heritage Centre (23rd July 2026) Amendment Proposal, Mosi-oa-Tunya/Victoria Falls World Heritage Site (7B.93-Kenya)

UNESCO/World Heritage Centre (24th July 2026) Revised Amendment Proposal, Mosi-oa-Tunya/Victoria Falls World Heritage Site (7B.93 - Kenya REV2).

UNESCO/World Heritage Centre (27th July 2026) Committee Discussion, Mosi-oa-Tunya/Victoria Falls World Heritage Site (7B.83) [See Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (27th July 2026) World Heritage Committee Discussion on Victoria Falls World Heritage Site, 27th July 2026.]

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (9th July 2026) Still Kicking the Can Down the Road... UNESCO World Heritage Committee Draft Decision text published.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (18th July 2026) Riverside Developments at Victoria Falls Threaten World Heritage Site.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (23rd July 2026) World Heritage Committee members attempt to dilute draft Decision text regarding Victoria Falls.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (24th July 2026) Committee Members Propose Further Last Minute Amendments to draft Decision text on Victoria Falls World Heritage Site.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (27th July 2026) World Heritage Committee Discussion on Victoria Falls World Heritage Site, 27th July 2026.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (28th July 2026) World Heritage Committee Adopted Decision text on Victoria Falls World Heritage Site, 27th July 2026.

World Heritage Committee Adopted Decision text on Victoria Falls World Heritage Site, 27th July 2026

Keep Victoria Falls Wild, 28th July 2026

The following is our (unofficial) record of the adopted decision text relating to the Mosi-oa-Tunya/Victoria Falls World Heritage Site as discussed, amended and adopted by the World Heritage Committee at its 48th Session in Busan, South Korea on 27th July 2026. The text is as per the proposed amended text displayed on-screen during the Committee’s debate.

Amendments as suggested by the Committee members of Kenya, Senegal, Tanzania and Togo. Amendments were first proposed in a document published on 23rd July. In introducing the discussion it was disclosed that the representatives of the African World Heritage Centre and IUCN had met with the representatives of the state Parties (Zambia and Zimbabwe) on the same day to discuss the proposed amendments and resulting in the revised amendment document published on 24th. Download the amendments as submitted and published on 24th July 2026 here.

See also our previous notes on the proposed amended text under Further Information.

UNESCO will publish their official record in due course. 

See also our full (unofficial) transcript of the Committee's discussion on the Site here.

7B.93 the Mosi-oa-Tunya/Victoria Falls World Heritage Site

Points 1, 2 and 3 adopted without amendment.

“1. Having examined Document WHC/26/48.COM/7B.Add,

2. Recalling Decisions 45 COM 7B.10 and 46 COM 7B.60 adopted at its extended 45th (Riyadh, 2023) and 46th sessions (New Delhi, 2024) respectively,

3. Welcomes the continued cooperation between the States Parties, supported by their partners, to strengthen the protection of the property through joint measures, including invasive species control, monitoring, fire management, enhanced conservation actions, and law enforcement;”

Point 4 adopted as amended. Final approved text therefore:

“4. Expresses concern that possible cumulative impacts from infrastructure and tourism developments within the property, its buffer zone, and wider setting where applicable continue to pose a significant threat to the Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) of the property, a situation exacerbated, among other things, by the fact that the States Parties continue to receive development project proposals, and invites the States Parties to continue to provide details on any ongoing or future development projects that will be under consideration as soon as information is available.”

Point 5 adopted without amendment.

“5. Regrets the continued delay in completing and submitting the Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA), despite repeated requests and the recommendations of the 2022 mission, and urges again the States Parties to expedite its finalization with technical guidance from IUCN, as well as its official submission, while ensuring that its conclusions and recommendations are fully integrated into all planning, zoning, and development decision-making processes affecting the property, its buffer zone and wider setting;”

Point 6 adopted as amended. Final approved text therefore:

“6. Notes with regret that, at the time of producing this draft decision no update was provided regarding the letter (Ref: CLT/WHC/AFR/24/151) on the third-party concerns related to permits for two commercial tourism developments in highly sensitive zones on the Zimbabwean component of the property. Expresses its concern about the potentially irreversible impacts of these projects on the integrity and the visual attributes of the property and urgently requests the States Parties to provide updates on the above-mentioned letter and report on the monitoring and mitigation measures in place to ensure that the infrastructures do not negatively affect the OUV of the property;”

Point 7 adopted without amendment.

“7. Also notes with regret that the construction of the Mosi-oa-Tunya Livingstone Resort Hotel proceeded without fully meeting approval conditions at the national level and following the Committee’s request to halt further activities until the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) had been submitted and reviewed, and reiterates its requests to the States Parties to implement the 2022 Reactive monitoring mission recommendation to develop a comprehensive Environmental and Social Management plan, which the States Parties indicated in their 2024 report was already being developed, ensuring that the mitigation measures put in place take into account the visual integrity and cumulative effects of the project and address its negative impacts on the property’s OUV;”

Point 8, adopted as amended. Final approved text therefore:

“8. Also reiterates its request to the States Parties to ensure that any project located within the property, its buffer zone, and wider setting, where applicable with potential impacts on the OUV is subject to assessment through ESIA or HIA in conformity with the Guidance and Toolkit for Impact Assessments in a World Heritage Context and submitted for review prior to any decision;”

Point 9 adopted as amended. Final approved text therefore:

“9. Expresses continued concern regarding the likely negative impact of the proposed Batoka Gorge Hydro Electric Scheme (BGHES) on the Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) of the property, and further reiterates its request that the revised ESIA be in line with the above-mentioned guidance, including a rigorous assessment of alternative scenarios that minimize negative impacts on the OUV, as recommended by the 2022 Reactive monitoring mission, and be submitted to the World Heritage Centre for review, prior to taking any decision that is difficult to reverse;”

Point 10 adopted, after debate, as amended. Final approved text therefore:

"10. Appreciates the submission of the draft Joint Integrated Management Plan (JIMP) 2025-2030, underlines that further amendment is needed to detail the zoning system of the property to function as an effective regulatory tool, as well as the operational, regulatory, and monitoring aspects, and requests the States Parties to further revise and submit the updated version of the JIMP to the World Heritage Centre for review, prior to its validation and future implementation, by:

a) Incorporating clearly defined safeguards and thresholds to mitigate against developmental pressures for the protection of the property’s OUV, and zoning of the property, including well-prescribed limits of acceptable use and permissible activities (including tourism and development infrastructures), in line with the objectives of protecting the OUV and in line with past Committee decisions,

b) Developing finer-scale maps of the zoning system to avoid any ambiguity in its implementation,

c) Establishing enforceable visitor management mechanisms and strictly controlled areas in sensitive zones,...

d) Developing and operationalizing the research and monitoring framework, including the provision of detailed methodologies, the clear allocation of responsibilities, and the establishment of mechanisms to ensure that monitoring results effectively inform adaptive management,

e) Strengthening the consideration and management of cumulative and transboundary impacts on the OUV of the property, particularly of major developments and ongoing urban growth, including their potential effects on hydrological regimes, geomorphological aspects, and visual integrity

f) Ensuring that the JIMP is supported by adequate and sustainable financing to ensure its effective implementation, and monitoring for the long-term protection of the OUV;”

Point 11 adopted as amended

“11. Reiterates furthermore its request to the States Parties to submit a request for a boundary modification in accordance with the Operational Guidelines to set the precise boundaries of the property and its buffer zone, aligned with past Committee Decisions and the property’s Statement of OUV, and encourages the States Parties to seek further technical guidance from the World Heritage Centre and IUCN as required;”

Point 12 (now included under item 11) adopted as amended. Final approved text therefore:

“Also requests that information on the current status of all proposed development projects, reported by the States Parties, including their precise location, and scale, be submitted to the World Heritage Centre as soon as such information becomes available, with particular attention to tourism developments.”

New point 12, Adopted, following debate over ‘terminology and scope, as amended.

“12. Recommends both States Parties to invite Advisory Bodies and WHC to the site for an on-the-ground boundary verification and for guidance on outstanding matters.”

Pont 13 adopted without amendment.

“13. Finally requests the States Parties to submit to the World Heritage Centre, by 1 February 2027, an interim report including a copy of the updated JIMP, taking into consideration the comments outlined above, and by 1 December 2027, an updated report on the State of Conservation of the property and the implementation of the above, for examination by the World Heritage Committee at its 50th session.”

Further Information

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (27th July 2026) WorldHeritage Committee Discussion on Victoria Falls World Heritage Site,27th July 2026.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (24th July 2026) Committee Members Propose Further Last Minute Amendments to draft Decision text on Victoria Falls World Heritage Site.

 Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (23rd July 2026) World Heritage Committee members attempt to dilute draft Decision text regarding Victoria Falls.

 

 

World Heritage Committee Discussion on Victoria Falls World Heritage Site, 27th July 2026

Keep Victoria Falls Wild, 27th July 2026

Unofficial transcript of World Heritage Committee discussion regarding State of Conservation of the Mosi-oa-Tunya/Victoria Falls World Heritage Site, at the 48th session of the Committee, held at Busan, Republic of Korea,  27th July 2026, morning session.

You can watch the full session on the UNESCO YouTube channel here. (discussion on Victoria Falls starts around 3.25).

Download an audio file (mp3) of the discussion on the Victoria Falls here.

Download the amended draft decision text for the Site (pdf), as submitted to the World Heritage Centre on 24th July 2026 here. Please note that UNESCO will publish the final agreed text on their website at some point in the near future. Note that there may be minor differences between the amendments as drafted in this document and the amendments as shown on screen during the Session and as discussed by the Committee. We will publish a detailed comparison and review of the agreed decision text in due course.

Please also note that certain sections of the dialog are unclear as to the specific wordings of the Committee or Chair and this transcript should be checked against the audio/video, which has subtitled (but not always correct!) for confirmation and clarification. 

Session Chaired by Mr Lee Byong-Hyun.

African World Heritage Centre Representative: Mr Muhammad Muhammad Juma.

IUCN Representative: Mizuki Murai, Senior Programme Coordinator.

World Heritage Watch Representative: Stephan Doempke.

WHC48-7B-93 Transcript of Discussion

[Chair] OK, thank you, Excellences, dear colleagues, we will continue with 7B Nature, Africa. I now would like to give the floor to the delegation of Senegal to present to the Committee the reason why it requested to open for discussion the state of conservation of the Mosi-oa-Tunya/Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe. Mr Ambassador you have the floor.

[Senegal] Thank you Chairperson. Senegal wishes to thank the Secretariat for agreeing to open the state of conservation report on the Victoria Falls property. With your permission we would like to give the floor to the distinguished Ambassador of Tanzania in order to present this item. Thank you Chair.

[Chair] Err, Senegal now is not the right time to give the floor to Tanzania or Zambia, so later on specific questions. You introduce, please.

[Senegal] No, in fact we would like to give the floor to Tanzania in order to introduce why Senegal requested the opening of the report on the state of conservation.

[Chair] So agreed among African group? I recognise Ambassador Faye just come back.

[Senegal] Yes, Chairperson, we requested this discussion and within the African group we decided that Kenya would be taking the floor.

[Chair] If that's the case I now invite Tanzania, OK, you have the floor

[Tanzania] Sorry Chair, I think the Chair of the African group mentioned that within the African group the first one to take the floor will be Kenya followed by Tanzania, with your permission.

[Chair] OK, Kenya?

[Kenya] Thank you Mr Chairman for this opportunity. As regards this matter we appreciate the demonstrated efforts invested by the State Parties of Zambia and Zimbabwe in the preservation and the conservation of the OUV of the property amid competing interests at the Site.

Chair, our main issue lies in the need to address a selected few technical aspects embedded in the draft decision, and besides the language used, which we believe should be moderated, we consider that there are technical issues that we need to acknowledge.

One of the issues that we have noted the issue of the State Parties making strides in a positive direction. As we are gathered here we are informed that a team of experts is conducting assessment in response to a call from the Zimbabwe National Committee on calculation of risks undermining the critical conservation and protection in Victoria Falls.

Chair, with particular emphasis on the Baines Restaurant and the Cataract Island activity, these, in our opinion, are not part of high magnitude developments. On the balance of probabilities the two State Parties are leaning more on the positive rather than the negative. More tangible efforts have been done towards mitigation of negative impacts.

Chair, the state party of Zambia in their actions are a true statement to the further confirmation for the need to balance conservation and sustainable development in line with the 2015 Policy document on the sustainable development, among others.

We propose that both State Parties continue to engage in dialogue with the World Heritage Centre and IUCN and that they invite an Advisory Mission on the best ways of dealing with issues surrounding Victoria Falls. In this light we call for the opening of the item and have proposed amendments to the draft decision. Thank you Chair.

[Chair] OK, thank you. I now invite Mr Muhammad Juma Muhammad Chief of the African World Heritage Centre, and IUCN to provide their comments. You have the floor.

[African World Heritage Centre Representative] Thank you very much Mr Chair. Mr Chair, this is a joint intervention from World Heritage Centre Secretariat and IUCN. In the spirit of cooperation that the Kenya announced, and support for the State Parties, Mr Chair we are please to inform the distinguished committee members that having taking note of the proposed amendments the Secretariat and IUCN met with the State Parties of Zambia and Zimbabwe for constructive exchange and dialogue, which led to clarification and agreement on points raised. Thank you Mr Chair.

[Chair] Thank you. IUCN.

[IUCN Representative] Thank you Mr Chair. The WHC gave a joint intervention on behalf of the Centre and IUCN, however I would also like to acknowledge and wish to thank the State Parties of Zambia and Zimbabwe for the constructive meeting that we held of the 23rd July. Thank you Mr Chair.

[Chair] OK, thank you. As Kenyan delegation rightly pointed out we surely have amended proposal, so please upload on the screen.

Para 1, 2, 3, with original language, unless there is objection? Para 1,2,3 adopted.

Para 4 - no objections? Para 4 adopted as amended.

Para 5, original language, normal litigation. Para 5 - Adopted.

Para 6 - I see no questions, no objections. Para 6 adopted as amended.

Para 7, with original language. Para 7 adopted.

Para 8. I see no objection. Para 8 adopted as amended.

Para 9. I see no objection. Para 9 adopted as amended.

Para 10, small 'a', small 'b' - no problem, small 'c' - minor wording change, 'd', 'e', 'f'. So Para 10 - OK, Poland.

[Poland] Thank you Chair, we think that with the paragraph point 'e' we would like to remain the point 'ecological connectivity' because that is really important for the Site and I think it would be good to leave it here.

[Chair] OK, Kenya.

[Kenya] Thank you Chair. We wish to bring to your notice that the Site was inscribed under criterion 7 and 8, so this 'ecological connectivity' is not well grounded, so that's why we propose for geomorphological aspects, thank you.

[Chair] Poland, and followed by Switzerland

[Poland] Thank you very much. I know - I have this understanding - that one of the attributes, there is migratory route for birds, so ecological connectivity, this ecological connectivity is really important apart from the beauty and exception phenomenon. Thank you.

[Chair] Thank you. Switzerland

[Switzerland] Thank you Chairperson for giving us the floor. We wish to support what our colleagues from Poland have stated and we would add additional that there are birds there are also deciduous forest which comply with criterion 7 so ecological connectivity is very important here, so perhaps which should retain 'ecological connectivity' and 'geomorphological aspects' as well. Thank you.

[Chair] OK, Kenya

[Kenya] Sorry the issue here is, those issue of birds that just added information during the interactive statement of our OUV.

We also appreciate that we have those two species of bird, the black eagle and the taita falcon that was mentioned in the interactive statement. But the gist of the inscription was under criterion 7 and criterion 8, kindly, thank you.

[Chair] Tanzania.

[Tanzania] Thank you Chair, we wish to align to Kenya because the key consideration for this site is criteria 8 and it is very difficult to see why we should now add 'ecological connectivity' which is a very different criteria. And perhaps Kenya, sorry, Chair, at your discretion, if we could also ask the State Parties concerned to add some information on this particular discussion. Thank you Chair.

[Chair] OK for this very specific question to State Party for one minute, maximum one minute. Zambia.

[Zambia] Thank you Mr Chairman, as this is the first time for us to come on the floor we would like to appreciate the hospitality granted to us by the State Party of Republic of Korea. Just like as the committee members have pointed out the Mosi-oa-Tunya/Victoria Falls was inscribed on geological criteria, and even these said migratory routes are not there - there is no, nothing to do with migratory route at the Victoria Falls World Heritage Site

And even the taita falcon which has been said here, the recent studies that have been done at the WHS point to the fact there was only one taita falcon which was seemingly - and I'm using the word seemingly - spotted during this study. Therefore you cannot submit the State Parties to that terminology. And this is the same terminology which was removed when we last met in Saudi Arabia if not in India. So therefore we are asking that this terminology be removed because in the future it may be used against us wrongfully as has been the case in the past. I submit Mr Chairman.

[Chair] Thank you but despite criteria concerned, relevant criteria, ecological connectivity does not harm, so I don't understand why 'ecological connectivity' plus 'geomorphological aspect', both elements there. Czechia

[Czechia] Thank you Mr Chair, we would like to ask Secretariat or IUCN to add more information so that we may understand better the situation. Thank you very much.

[Chair] Ok, thank you. Advisory bodies, expertise, opinion?

[IUCN Representative] Thank you Mr Chair. I think in this regard the sentence refers to 'including', so it is under the understanding that these are some of the aspects to be considered. With regard specifically to the ecological connectivity indeed this property is inscribed under criterion 7 and 8, nonetheless the statement of OUV as a whole including the text under integrity, it does point towards the broader ecological aspects of this property as part of the wider ecosystems. Thank you Mr Chair.

[Chair] OK, thank you IUCN. I now give the floor to Kenya.

[Kenya] OK, thank you Chair. Our position is that what needs to be the focus of the two State Parties as regards the Site is sticking to the criteria 7 and 8, look at the continued conservation and management of the geomorphological aspects and the reasons to do with hydrological regimes. This 'ecological connectivity' is kind of not well grounded, because those two species, those that have been floated here, there is no indication how they are affected by any of these developments that you are talking about, thank you.

[Chair] Tanzania - and just produce some constructed compromise.

[Tanzania] Thank you Chair, thank you very much. I think we need to be focussed. We are very much guided by the criteria when we inscribe to ensure that the conditions of the OUV are met and we are guided by the criteria. If we expand to include ecological systems and value that means we are proposing another criteria for this particular site. So while it is a good terminology added to the statement of the OUV, it cannot override the primary goal, you know, for inscribing this Site, which, was criteria 8 and 7. So, our position is that the that fact there is a mention in the OUV cannot be safely taken now to increase the responsibility of the State party based on a criteria which is not demonstrated, basically, at the Site. So we continue to support what Kenya is proposing, Chair. Thank you.

[Chair] Hmm, so I think Senegal is in line with Kenya and Tanzania, so I now Poland.

[Poland] Thank you Mr Chair. I would like to ask how the State Parties concerned how this 'ecological connectivity' goes against criterion 7 because I don't see that it is contradictory. Criterion 7 talks about the exceptional beauty and outstanding phenomena of nature, so I don't see here any contradiction. So please, I would like to hear about this. Thank you very much.

[Chair] Time is up, so I now give the floor to Senegal

[Senegal] Thank you very much Chairperson for giving me the floor. I believe that the matter here is not to know what goes against criteria 7 and 8, but rather what is relevant within the framework of the listing because paragraph 'e' focuses on the listing and it is stated that 'Including their potential effects', so this has to be taken in light of the OU statement of the property. If this is not something which will block the adoption of the draft decision, I would like to urge delegations to show flexibility and understanding, the Polish and the Swiss delegations in particular, so that we may adopt this draft decision on the basis of proposals already tabled by Kenya. Thank you

[Chair] Given time constraints if Poland or Switzerland cannot propose compromise language, let's leave it... until this afternoon. Poland?

[Poland] Thank you Mr Chair. I have a compromise proposal just to keep ecological connectivity and after coma to put 'If appropriate or relevant' - 'whenever appropriate.'

[Chair] OK, Kenya

[Kenya] Thank you. Mr Chairman. For us we really respect the opinions of Switzerland and Poland. Making a decision - any decision we make here has serious implications. It is not that Zambia or Zimbabwe are opposed to taking care of biodiversity and especially birds, so we respectively want to ask that we stick to the criteria but note that we have that responsibility to take care of our biodiversity, which we do very dutifully. Thank you chair.

[Chair] Poland.

[Poland] Mr President, for the sake of time and in the spirit of compromise, also we are full confident in our argumentation, we are willing to go with this language as amended. Thank you. Which means submitting without this 'ecological connectivity'.

[Chair] Switzerland

[Switzerland] Thank you chairperson. In spirit of consensus we could also agree to that position, thank you.

[Chair] OK, thank you so much. So 'f', 'e', - small 'e' - adopted as amended and 'f' with original languages, whole para 10 adopted.

11 - I see no objection, Para 11 adopted as amended.

Para 12 - OK, is see none, Para 12 adopted as amended.

Para 13 - Czechia

[Czechia] Thank you Mr Chair we would like to ask the Secretariate just technical questions regarding this new para 13 and the specific wording displayed on screen in the Kenya amendment whether the text needs to be more specified according to the operational guidelines. In this case the advisory mission would address the verification of the ground boundary and provide guidance on the outstanding issues is not defined in the amendment. Could we seek  advice as to if the current wording is sufficient or whether it should be adjusted more closely reflect the terminology of the guidelines. Thank you very much.

[Chair] Thank you. IUCN.

[IUCN Representative] Thank you Mr Chair and thank you honourable delegate from Czechia. Indeed as currently drafted is it is somewhat difficult for us to be able to implement this particular decision or recommendation. The WHC and IUCN have spoken with the State Parties we would be please to field either an Advisory Mission or Reactive Monitoring Mission in discussion with the State Parties but as draft somewhat unclear as to how we would move forward. Thank you.

[Chair] So Czechia - understood? alright Para 13 and 14 with original language.

Para 13 adopted as amended together with Para 14, with original language. Para 13 and 14 adopted as amended.

OK I now declare draft decision for 48Com 7B.93 adopted as amended as a whole.

[Applause... Chair moves to close meeting, announcements...]

[Chair] Before closing the meeting I give the floor to WHW for a brief two minute statement. There will be no interpretation.

[World Heritage Watch Representative] Thank you Mr Chair. This is a statement by Keep Victoria Falls Wild supported by the World Heritage Watch network.

We are disappointed by the continued lack of progress by both the State Parties and the World Heritage Centre in addressing issues relating to tourism development pressures within and surrounding this Site, and note the proposed amended Decision text again attempts to dilute these concerns.

There has been no progress on mitigation measures relating to the Mosi-oa-Tunya Resort development in Zambia. No progress on undisclosed riverside developments constructed within the Site's 'no new development zone' in Zimbabwe. And no progress on further proposed riverside tourism developments within this zone, agreed by the Zimbabwean Park Authority and yet again undisclosed.

The list of issues and concerns significantly includes ongoing delays to the finalisation and submission of the SEA and new Joint Management Plan, as well as a long overdue clarification of the Site's boundary and management zones.

The State Parties have been repeatedly warned over the cumulative impact of tourism developments within and surrounding the property. Without action, the World Heritage Committee are in danger of assisting and facilitating further illegitimate tourism developments.

A moratorium on all tourism developments within the Site and its surrounding 500m Buffer Zone - pending the finalisation and agreement by the Committee of the new JIMP - is urgently needed in order to prevent further tourism development within the Site.

Thank you Mr Chair

[Chair] OK, thank you, now meeting is adjourned.

See also:

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (24th July 2026) Committee Members Propose Further Last Minute Amendments to draft Decision text on Victoria Falls World Heritage Site.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (23rd July 2026) World Heritage Committee members attempt to dilute draft Decision text regarding Victoria Falls.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (18th July 2026) Riverside Developments at Victoria Falls Threaten World Heritage Site 

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (15th July 2026) World Heritage Committee Turns Its Attentions to Victoria Falls.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (9th July 2026) Still Kicking the Can Down the Road... UNESCO World Heritage Committee Draft Decision text published.

Committee Members Propose Further Last Minute Amendments to Draft Decision Text on Victoria Falls World Heritage Site

Keep Victoria Falls Wild, 24th July 2024

Following submission of proposed amendments to the World Heritage Committee's Draft Decision text relating to the Mosi-oa-Tunya/Victoria Falls World Heritage Site, published on the UNESCO website yesterday morning (Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs, 24th July 2026), further amendments were published this morning, only a matter of hours before the Committee were due to discuss the Site.

Download the revised amendment proposal here (direct pdf download from KVFW website).

In the event the Committee ran over in its morning session, with five sites under Agenda Item 7B, including the Falls (last on the list), held over until the end of the afternoon session, only one of which was eventually discussed. Four Sites are therefore held over on the agenda and are now due to be discussed on Monday morning.

The two revised documents relating to the Site were published shortly after one another on the UNESCO website this morning, the second replacing the first. Comparison of these documents against the original draft text and the initially proposed amended text published yesterday reveal further minor amendments to points 4, 6, and 9 (amendments under points 8 and 10 are unchanged).

[suggested deleted text in red, additional text in blue]

4. Expresses serious concern that possible cumulative impacts from large-scale infrastructure and ever-increasing tourism developments within the property, its buffer zone, and (wider setting (where applicable) continue to pose a significant threat to the Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) of the property, a situation exacerbated, among other things, by the fact that the States Parties continue to receive several proposed development project proposalss, which the States Parties have indicated to be at the scoping stage, are currently underway will continue receiving, and invites the States Parties to continue to provideinge further details on any ongoing or/ future the reported development projects that are/ will be under consideration as soon as more information is available; ...

6. Notes with regret, that at the time of producing this draft decision no update was provided regarding the letter (Ref: CLT/WHC/AFR/24/151) on the third-party concerns related relating to permits for two commercial tourism developments in highly sensitive zones on the Zimbabwean component of the property. Noting that information available online indicates that these developments have already commenced operation, expresses its deep concern about the potentially irreversible impacts of these projects on the integrity and the visual attributes of the property and urgently requests the States Parties to provide updates on the abovementioned letter and report on the monitoring and mitigation measures in place to ensure that the infrastructures do not negatively affect the OUV of the property; ...

9. The Committee notes the updates on Expresses continued concern regarding the likely negative impact of the proposed Batoka Gorge Hydro Electric Scheme (BGHES) on the Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) of the property, and further reiterates its request that the revised ESIA must be in full conformity line with the above-mentioned guidance, including a rigorous assessment of alternative scenarios that minimize avoid mitigate negative impacts on the OUV, as recommended by the 2022 Reactive monitoring mission, and be submitted to the World Heritage Centre for review, prior to taking any decision that is difficult to reverse; The World Heritage Centre also attended a side event organized by States Parties on sustainable management .measures and acknowledged their efforts during its participation at the 47th Session. It was noted, however, that these measures are not currently reflected in the Draft Decision.

Point 12, with further details relating to tourism developments deleted, is now suggested to be merged under point 11:

11. Reiterates furthermore its request to the States Parties to submit a request for a boundary modification in accordance with the Operational Guidelines to set the precise boundaries of the property and its buffer zone, aligned with past Committee Decisions and the property’s Statement of OUV, and encourages the States Parties to seek further technical guidance from the World Heritage Centre and IUCN as required;

Also requests that information on the current status of all proposed development projects, reported by the States Parties at the scoping stage, including their precise location, and scale, be submitted to the World Heritage Centre as soon as such information becomes available, with particular attention to commercial tourism developments, notably the Cataract Island tours, ;Baines Restaurant, and Six senses eco-lodges, located in highly sensitive areas, notably Cataract Island and its riverine rainforest within the Zimbabwean component of the property;

And rewording of the proposed text under point 13 (now 12):

12. Recommends both States Parties to invite Advisory Bodies and WHC to the site for an on the ground boundary verification and for guidance on outstanding matters.

We believe the Committee should reject all these attempts to manipulate the amendment process in order to dilute the draft decision text relating to this Site, with the exception of approving the proposed text relating to the requested advisory mission to the Site.

See also:

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (23rd July 2026) World Heritage Committee members attempt to dilute draft Decision text regarding Victoria Falls.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (18th July 2026) Riverside Developments at Victoria Falls Threaten World Heritage Site 

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (15th July 2026) World Heritage Committee Turns Its Attentions to Victoria Falls.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (9th July 2026) Still Kicking the Can Down the Road... UNESCO World Heritage Committee Draft Decision text published.