Tragedy strikes again, female guard killed by elephant in Victoria Falls

 BARELY a week after a fatal elephant attack claimed a life in Mkhosana Suburb, another tragedy has hit Victoria Falls.

A female security guard was trampled to death by an elephant in Chinotimba Suburb on Sunday morning.

The woman, whose name is being withheld pending family notification, was on duty guarding a booster station when she was attacked.

Her lifeless body was discovered by a passer-by in the early hours of Sunday.

This incident follows last Sunday’s death of 42-year-old Gift Siziba, who was trampled by an elephant in Mkhosana Suburb.

The back-to-back fatalities have left the city in shock and fear.

Source: Tragedy strikes again, female guard killed by elephant in Victoria Falls (22/02/2026)

Horror in Mkhosana suburb…Jumbo tramples man to death as residents watch

 RESIDENTS of Mkhosana suburb in the CBZ area of Victoria Falls have been left in a state of deep shock and trauma after witnessing a marauding elephant fatally trample a 42-year-old man on Sunday night. 

The incident, which occurred around 11PM, claimed the life of Gift Siziba, a local resident, who was on his way to a funeral of a colleague he worked with at Wild Horizon. 

The attack unfolded at a house belonging to Mr Innocent Chidarera, who, along with other neighbours, watched in horror as the tragedy unfolded just metres from their windows. 

Speaking to the Chronicle yesterday, a visibly shaken Mr Chidarera recounted the terrifying moments when the elephant turned his property into the scene of a fatal attack. 

He described the incident as a traumatic experience that will haunt him for a long time.

“I am the owner of the premises where this unfortunate incident happened. It was, I think, around 11PM. I was asleep and was with my wife inside the house. We heard an elephant trumpeting,” said Mr Chidarera. 

He said the sound of footsteps followed the initial trumpeting. As he and his wife peeped through their curtain, they were met with a sight of sheer terror. 

“We opened our curtain, we found that a man was crawling under this tree and the elephant was in pursuit. When it got to the man, it went on its knees. I think it was using its horns to attack him,” Mr Chidarera said. 

The proximity of the attack left the family gripped with fear. 

“We could not see much because this tree was also obstructing. However, the elephant was so close, it was so close that you could touch it from the house,” he said. 

Desperate to intervene, Mr Chidarera tried to create a disturbance. 

“So, I also tried to make some noise inside. Then it trumpeted again and sprang. Then all the neighbours, I think they were watching from their windows. Everyone came out and then we saw a restless man, or I can say a lifeless body, lying beside my window. I am traumatised,” he said. 

A neighbour, who identified herself as Prophetess Margaret said she had heard the elephants moving around earlier in the evening but never imagined the horror that was about to unfold. 

“I first heard the elephants around 9PM, but it is common here. Then around 10:30PM, the trumpets sounded suspicious, and they drew near to my house. After a few minutes, we just heard my neighbours crying,” she said. 

Prophetess Margaret called on the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (Zimparks) to act urgently to prevent further loss of life.

“This is too much for us. We live in fear every day. I am appealing to Zimparks to move in and ensure this dangerous elephant is driven away or killed before it claims another life. We cannot continue living like this,” she pleaded. 

Matabeleland North Provincial Police spokesperson, Inspector Glory Banda, confirmed the tragic incident, urging the public to be extra vigilant, especially at night when human-wildlife conflict is high. 

“A 42-year-old man, Gift Siziba, was walking at around 10:30pm when he encountered an elephant, which charged towards him. He tried to run towards the houses but the elephant caught up with him and trampled him to death,” said Insp Banda. 

“Residents tried to scare it away, but unfortunately, he had already died upon their arrival,” he added. 

The death of Mr Siziba has cast a dark shadow over the Mkhosana community, with residents calling for an urgent review of safety measures to protect people from wildlife that frequently wanders into residential areas.

Source: Horror in Mkhosana suburb…Jumbo tramples man to death as residents watch (16/02/2026)

Elephant Kills Man in Victoria Falls

 A 42-year-old Victoria Falls man has died after being trampled by an elephant, in yet another reminder of the growing risks of human-wildlife encounters in the resort town.

Police say the incident happened around 10:30pm on Sunday near the Vehicle Inspection Department, commonly known as VID.

According to Matebeleland North police spokesperson Inspector Glory Banda, the man was walking through the area when he reportedly came across a lone elephant that became aggressive and attacked him.

Inspector Banda says the victim died at the scene.

Authorities are urging residents and visitors to avoid walking at night and to remain alert, as elephants and other wildlife frequently move into residential and commercial areas in search of food and water.

Source: Elephant Kills Man in Victoria Falls (16/02/2026)

ZimParks increases fees

 The Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) has increased daily conservation and park entrance fees at Victoria Falls and other major attractions with immediate effect.

The increase follows the country’s introduction of value-added tax (VAT) on tourism services, which has now been applied to park entry fees.

According to New Zimbabwe, the revised charges were revealed in ZimParks’ 2026 tariff schedule with higher rates across local, SADC and international visitor categories.

Under the new tariffs, international day visitors entering the Victoria Falls Rainforest through the main gate will pay US$58. Those using the VIP gate will be charged US$174 (up from US$150). Rainforest moonlight viewing for international visitors will cost US$116 compared with the previous US$100.

The authority previously increased international entrance fees from US$30 to US$50, making the latest adjustment a further rise in the cost of accessing one of Zimbabwe’s flagship attractions.

ZimParks has increased conservation fees at other major parks including Mana Pools, Sapi and Chewore across all categories. Local visitors will pay US$8, SADC tourists US$18 and international visitors US$24.

Speaking to Tourism Update, Kumbi Chiweshe, Chairman of the Zimbabwe Tour Operators Association (ZTOA), said operators will need to adjust packaging and pricing following the increases.

“Victoria Falls remains one of the world’s most iconic natural attractions and continues to anchor Zimbabwe’s tourism offering. While the recent fee adjustments require operators to recalibrate pricing structures, our members are experienced in structuring multi-country itineraries and managing cost variables across the region.”

He expects most operators to incorporate the revised fees transparently into packages, reassess commission structures where necessary and focus on value-driven positioning rather than price-driven competition. “Competitiveness is therefore determined by overall experience, accessibility, service standards and destination appeal, not entry fees alone.”

On feedback from the trade, Chiweshe said fee changes naturally prompted questions from international partners. “Feedback from our members indicates increased requests for clarity and advance notice on pricing adjustments, sensitivity from certain source markets that are already navigating global economic pressures and continued strong demand for Victoria Falls as a bucket list destination.”

Although there is no “wholesale substitution away from Victoria Falls”, he said “predictability and consistency in pricing remain important factors in long-term itinerary planning”.

With VAT now applied to park fees, ZTOA is advising members to quote clearly and transparently, ensure VAT components are itemised where required and communicate proactively with trade partners to avoid confusion at point of sale.

“Transparency and predictability are critical in international contracting cycles, which often run 12 to 18 months in advance,” said Chiweshe, adding that ZTOA is engaging with ZimParks and authorities to improve consultation and advance notice of pricing changes while supporting conservation funding and tourism competitiveness.

Source: ZimParks increases fees (12/02/2026)

High Court dismisses environmental activist’s application in Victoria Falls development dispute

 Rutendo Nyeve, rutendo.nyeve@sundaynews.co.zw

THE High Court has struck off the roll an application by Victoria Falls environmental activist Mr Lawrence Benjamin Norton, who is facing a US$2,2 million defamation lawsuit from Scanner Investments (Pvt) Ltd, the developers of the upmarket Baines Restaurant in Victoria Falls.

In his ruling, High Court judge Justice Rogers Manyangadze found that Mr Norton’s application to compel further and better particulars from Scanner Investments was improperly before the court, as he had already filed a plea to the main suit.

Justice Manyangadze ruled that once a party has pleaded to the merits of a matter, the option to request further particulars falls away.

“In my view, the provisions cited above are clear and unambiguous. A request for further particulars is an alternative to pleading to the merits. Thus, where a party has pleaded to the merits, as the applicant has done, that event precludes him from requesting further particulars,” said the judge.

“It is therefore the court’s considered view that the applicant, having pleaded to the merits, cannot proceed to exercise the option to request further and better particulars. That option is no longer available to him.”

Justice Manyangadze ordered the application to be removed from the roll and directed Mr Norton to pay the legal costs incurred by Scanner Investments.

The dispute has its roots in an earlier application filed by Mr Norton in 2022 under case number HC3576/22, in which he sought to interdict Scanner Investments from continuing construction activities within what he described as an ecologically sensitive zone adjacent to the Victoria Falls Rainforest.

In that matter, Mr Norton argued that commercial developments near the Falls would “irreparably damage the ecological and aesthetic integrity” of the World Heritage site. The Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) and the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) were cited as respondents.

In response, Scanner Investments filed a defamation and damages claim on May 16 last year, alleging that Mr Norton’s public statements and court filings had caused serious reputational harm and adversely affected the business prospects of the restaurant, which is now fully operational.

The company is seeking about US$2,2 million in damages for what it describes as historical, current and future loss of business, accusing Mr Norton of conducting a “smear campaign” that questioned the legality and environmental compliance of the development.

Mr Norton subsequently applied for further and better particulars, seeking clarity on the specific statements that Scanner Investments alleges were defamatory. According to court papers, this request followed what he described as an inadequate and dismissive initial response from the company.

However, Justice Manyangadze upheld a preliminary objection raised by Scanner Investments, which argued that the application was moot because Mr Norton had already pleaded to the merits of the defamation claim.

The company had also raised additional objections, including that Mr Norton lacked authority to depose to the founding affidavit and that his answering affidavit was defective.

The court did not rule on these points after disposing of the matter on the issue of mootness.
The case forms part of broader and ongoing tensions surrounding development in and around Victoria Falls, a designated World Heritage Site that continues to attract both investment and environmental scrutiny.

Despite the legal setback, Mr Norton maintains that his actions are driven by genuine environmental concerns. Scanner Investments, meanwhile, insists that its project complied with all statutory and regulatory requirements and that the activist’s allegations were reckless and damaging.

Source: High Court dismisses environmental activist’s application in Victoria Falls development dispute (11/02/2026)

Zimbabwe, Zambia strengthen joint conservation strategy for Victoria Falls

 ZIMBABWE and Zambia have intensified their joint efforts to ensure the sustainable management and conservation of the iconic Mosi-oa-Tunya/Victoria Falls World Heritage Site through a comprehensive, unified strategy aimed at preserving its Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) for future generations.

The two countries have jointly submitted a State of Conservation Report to the UNESCO World Heritage Centre through the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) and Zambia’s National Heritage Conservation Commission (NHCC), reaffirming their commitment to coordinated action in addressing conservation challenges.

The report was compiled by ZimParks director-general, Professor Edson Gandiwa and NHCC executive director, Mr Kagosi Mwamulowe.

It responds directly to concerns raised by the World Heritage Committee, particularly regarding developmental pressures and the need for robust, integrated planning to safeguard the transboundary heritage site.

A major milestone highlighted in the report is the finalisation and submission of the Joint Integrated Management Plan (JIMP) 2025-2030.

The JIMP provides a unified management framework for both countries, harmonising policies and conservation practices.

It introduces clearly defined safeguards, development thresholds and a refined zoning system that categorises areas into High, Medium and Low Ecologically Sensitive Zones, aimed at minimising development impacts and protecting the core natural features of the waterfall, gorges and rainforest.

“The Joint Integrated Management Plan has been finalised, ensuring the inclusion of robust safeguards, clearly defined thresholds and appropriate zonation measures to mitigate developmental pressures and safeguard the property’s Outstanding Universal Value,” reads the report.

The report also addresses the contentious Batoka Gorge Hydro Electric Scheme (BGHES), confirming that the project is undergoing a revised Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) in line with UNESCO guidance.

The revised assessment must consider alternative scenarios to avoid adverse impacts on the site’s OUV. In addition, the Zambezi River Authority and the two governments have committed to conducting biannual geomorphological surveys to monitor any changes to the landscape that could be linked to the proposed dam.

In a further move to strengthen protection, Zimbabwe and Zambia have formally submitted a request for a boundary modification of the World Heritage Site.

“The modification aims to ensure the property’s limits are clearly defined and appropriately aligned to enhance the protection of its Outstanding Universal Value,” reads the report.

On the ground, joint conservation efforts are being intensified through co-ordinated site inspections, invasive species control programmes and strengthened law enforcement patrols to combat poaching and other illegal activities.

Proactive fire management strategies in Zimbabwe, coupled with community engagement initiatives on both sides of the Zambezi River, have been identified as key components of the conservation drive.

Transboundary governance structures have also been reinforced, with regular meetings of the Joint Ministerial Committee, Joint Technical Committee and Joint Site Management Committee ensuring continuous dialogue and effective implementation of agreed measures.

The two countries are also collaborating at international platforms, participating in global heritage and conservation forums to share best practices.

Importantly, the report highlights a firm stance against unregulated development, noting that no new activities within the World Heritage Site or its buffer zone have been approved.

“Any future projects must undergo rigorous Environmental and Heritage Impact Assessments before consideration, a measure designed to prevent irreversible damage,” reads the report.

“The States Parties reaffirm their continued collaboration and dedication to ensuring the effective protection and sustainable management of the Mosi-oa-Tunya/Victoria Falls World Heritage Site.”

By prioritising conservation over unchecked development, Zimbabwe and Zambia aim to ensure that Victoria Falls continues to inspire awe while sustainably supporting both ecological integrity and economic development for generations to come.

Source: Zimbabwe, Zambia strengthen joint conservation strategy for Victoria Falls (08/02/2026)

1,2m tourists flock to Vic Falls

VICTORIA Falls has cemented its status as Zimbabwe’s premier tourist gateway, with immigration authorities clearing more than 1,2 million travellers last year.

This marks a seven percent increase from 1,1 million travellers processed the previous year, underscoring a robust post-pandemic recovery and growing global appeal.

The surge was particularly pronounced during the festive season.

In December, more than 95 000 travellers moved through the North-Western borders, a 6,74 percent rise compared to the over 89 000 recorded in the same month of 2024.

This was revealed by the Department of Immigration’s Chief Director, Ms Respect Gono.

“A total of 1 225 167 travellers were cleared in the region during the year 2025 compared to 1 135 759 that were cleared the previous year, reflecting an overall increase of 7,87 percent.

“In December 2025, over 95 000 travellers were recorded across the North-Western borders, reflecting a 6,74 percent increase in traveller movement compared to the same period in 2024, which recorded over 89 000 travellers.

“Victoria Falls Border had the largest travel volume, accounting for over 52 644 travellers in December 2025 compared to 47 550 during the same period in 2024. The second-highest traveller movement was recorded at Victoria Falls Airport, which had a total of 25 561 travellers in 2025 compared to 23 404 during the same period in 2024,” said Ms Gono.

She attributed the growth to strategic Government initiatives and favourable conditions, showcasing the region’s rising prominence.

The North-Western Region, centred around the iconic Victoria Falls, is the nation’s tourism heartbeat. It is serviced by four land borders, Victoria Falls, Kazungula, Pandamatenga and Kasambabezi and the Victoria Falls International Airport, forming a critical network for regional and international access.

Ms Gono outlined several key drivers behind the remarkable increase in visitor numbers. Chief among them is the Second Republic’s push to modernise border management.

The automation and digitisation of immigration procedures, including online visa applications, electronic permits, and the use of e-gates, have drastically reduced clearance times, enhancing traveller experience. 

“Ours remains to facilitate movement and business,” Ms Gono said, emphasising the department’s commitment.

“The digitisation initiative, as reflected in the Online Border Management System (OBMS), from e-visas, e-permits, e-gates and many more, will definitely keep Zimbabwe a must-visit country in 2026.”

Natural and logistical factors have also played a pivotal role.

Higher water levels on the Zambezi River have made the Victoria Falls spectacle more dramatic, reigniting international interest after the Covid-19 slowdown.

Furthermore, expanded direct flight connectivity from across the globe has made access easier and faster, boosting arrivals at Victoria Falls Airport.

A landmark development has been the 24-hour operational status of the Victoria Falls Border Post, inaugurated on December 31, 2025. This move is expected to further support cross-border tourism and trade.

The data for December illustrates the traffic distribution: Victoria Falls Border Post led with 52 644 movements, followed by Victoria Falls Airport (25 561), Kazungula (15 454), Kasambabezi (1 403), and Pandamatenga (258).

Source: 1,2m tourists flock to Vic Falls (2/2/2026)