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)