New book on Conservation and Development of Victoria Falls launched

The Zambezi Book Company have announced publication of their latest study on the history of the Victoria Falls - 'Paradise Lost? Conservation and Development of the Victoria Falls (1900-2025)', researched and written by Peter Roberts and available to purchase online across the world through Amazon. The book is the latest in an ongoing series looking at the modern history and developments of the Victoria Falls, including detailed studies on the history of the Victoria Falls Bridge, Hotel and tourism development on both sides of the river.

'Paradise Lost?' presents a detailed overview of the establishment and evolution of the protected areas surrounding the Falls from the early 1900s and the subsequent erosion and fragmentation of these areas under growing tourism development pressures, including extended detail on the period since the designation of the Falls as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1989 through to the modern day. The book documents increasing tourism development pressures and raises serious questions over the management of the protected area of the Falls and monitoring and oversight of international designations aimed at preserving the natural environment of the Falls for future generations.

Focussing on the area of the Victoria Falls and river corridor immediately above and below the Falls, protected since the early part of the last century, 'Paradise Lost?' details the conservation history of this area through to its designation as a World Heritage Site, and the degrading of this ecologically vulnerable area under ever increasing development pressures. The book ends with a review of the recently proposed Victoria Falls development 'masterplan' and latest UNESCO joint management plan, to be presented to the World Heritage Committee at the end of July 2026, with strong words of warning and recommendations for UNESCO regarding recent and proposed tourism developments within the protected area of the World Heritage Site.

Fully illustrated with 22 specially produced colour maps and 30 supporting colour graphics and photographs.

Read more on the website - 'Paradise Lost? Conservation and Development of the Victoria Falls (1900-2025)' - or order now online through Amazon.

Zim, UN to collaborate in tourism growth

 Zimbabwe remains committed to working closely with UN Tourism to showcase its beauty, endowments and hospitality, and will continue collaborating to enhance the country’s standing as a premier global destination, President Mnangagwa has said.

The President said this on his X handle soon after meeting visiting United Nations Tourism Secretary General Ms Shaikha al Noiwas at his Munhumutapa offices in Harare.

Ms Nowais is the first female to steer the organisation since its inception in 1975.

She arrived in the country on Sunday, through Victoria Falls, and is leading a high-level UN Tourism delegation set to hold a series of meetings in the country’s tourism hub.

The meetings seek to advance sustainable and inclusive tourism.

“It was an honour to welcome Ms Shaikha al Nowais, the recently appointed Secretary-General of UN Tourism, this afternoon. Her appointment marks a significant milestone as she becomes the first woman to helm the organisation in its 50-year history,” said President Mnangagwa.

“We discussed enhancing Zimbabwe’s standing as a premier global destination and harnessing sustainable tourism as a catalyst for economic growth and job creation. Zimbabwe remains committed to collaborating closely with UN Tourism to showcase the beauty and hospitality of our nation to the world.”

In an interview soon after meeting President Mnangagwa, Ms Nowais commended Zimbabwe’s efforts to boost the sector, saying it was paying dividends given the rise in tourist arrivals coupled with a surge in revenue.

She commended President Mnangagwa’s administration for driving the tourism industry, saying the country was set to achieve its national objectives.

“Look, I think Zimbabwe has come a long way with the leadership of the President and with the Honourable Minister executing and having a plan in place. I think they are on the right path. They have done a lot over the years. They have witnessed a growth of 10 percent of tourism arrivals only in 2025, which is a testament to the plan they have and the vision they have for tourism in Zimbabwe,” said Ms Nowais.

Commenting on her discussion with President Mnangagwa, she said he emphasised the importance of the sector.

“The President said that tourism is a driver, a key driver for the national economy of Zimbabwe. His belief in the sector is instrumental in what we see today for Zimbabwe,” she said.

Ms Nowais said she was visiting member countries to have an appreciation of their tourism ecosystem. “It is my first time to be in Zimbabwe, yes, but it will not be my last, that’s for sure. I will be visiting other countries. We have 161 member states from five different regions, so I have to visit as many as I can,” said Ms Nowais, who said she will be returning to Victoria Falls for a series of meetings.

Furthermore, she said she took her new responsibility with humility.

“It is not an easy job, but I feel that where there is a will, there is a way and when you are dedicated and committed to something, anything is possible,” she said.

Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Barbara Rwodzi said several meetings had been earmarked for the UN Tourism Secretary General with the sector’s stakeholders. “Today (yesterday), this morning, the Secretary-General opened a committee on Sustainable Tourism, which is an existing committee in the UN Tourism and it was an important meeting. It speaks more about sustaining and resilience in the sector.

“But one big highlight for us as a country is that today the UN Tourism Secretary General unveiled the logo for the next year UN General Assembly 2027, which speaks to tourism resilience and sustainability, and the logo was unveiled here in Zimbabwe to the world, for the first time, it was in Victoria Falls,” said Minister Rwodzi.

“We are very proud of that and it speaks volumes about our destination; it also speaks volumes about the relationship between the Government of Zimbabwe through our President, Dr ED Mnangagwa, and the United Nations Tourism, so it is an endorsement of a destination. We are very excited and very grateful to UN Tourism.”

Zimbabwe’s tourism industry is experiencing a strong resurgence, with 2024 seeing over 1,6 million international arrivals and $1,2 billion in revenue. Growth is driven by infrastructure upgrades, such as the expanded Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport, alongside increased investment, rising 11 percent to $190 million in 2024.

Source: ‘Zim, UN to collaborate in tourism growth’ (28/04/2026)

Vic Falls gets major luxury accommodation boost

 ZIMBABWE’S premier tourism hub and strategic economic corridor, Victoria Falls, is set for another major accommodation upgrade after Econet Wireless Zimbabwe subsidiary, Econet InfraCo, announced progress on the development of the Victoria Falls Private Residences, a high-end project within its premium real estate portfolio.

The development comes as the Second Republic continues to prioritise infrastructure-led economic transformation under the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS2), which identifies tourism, digital infrastructure and private sector investment as key pillars for accelerating economic growth, job creation and foreign currency generation.

Econet InfraCo chairman, Mr Godfrey Gomwe, said the project reflects the company’s broader strategy of unlocking high-value returns in one of the country’s most strategic destinations, while complementing Government efforts to position Victoria Falls as a global tourism and investment centre.

“Econet InfraCo is already a platform at scale. We operate a nationally integrated infrastructure footprint that is anchored along key economic corridors. We have a diversified asset base that is already deployed and performing,” he said.

“Most importantly for our investors, this large-scale physical backbone is secured by long-term contracted assets, providing us with a foundational yield.”

Mr Gomwe said Econet InfraCo should not be viewed through the narrow lens of a conventional tower operator.

“We are not a traditional ‘tower company.’ We are a platform. We are the physical layer upon which our economy will digitise,” he said.

Mr Gomwe outlined the company’s three complementary engines of value — TowerCo, which provides stable cash flows through telecommunications infrastructure; PowerCo, which is driving growth through energy optimisation and solar integration; and PropertyCo, which focuses on strategic real estate monetisation.

The investment aligns with the Government’s drive under the National Energy Policy and the Second Republic’s push for increased private sector participation in renewable energy projects, particularly as businesses increasingly integrate solar solutions into large-scale developments.

Under its PropertyCo division, Econet InfraCo is also advancing the Econet Tech City project, a phased industrial and digital ecosystem expected to evolve into a major hub for data centres, digital infrastructure and technology partnerships supporting Zimbabwe’s ambitions in artificial intelligence and cloud computing.

The project dovetails with the Government’s Smart Zimbabwe 2030 Master Plan, which seeks to transform the country into a digitally enabled upper-middle-income economy through expanded ICT infrastructure, innovation hubs and digital services. “This is not speculative real estate trading; it is the deliberate, phased monetisation of high-value sites,” said Mr Gomwe.

He said the Victoria Falls Private Residences will comprise ultra-modern luxury villas designed to meet growing high-end tourism demand, featuring secure gated access, premium amenities and world-class hospitality standards. “Grand visions, however, require rigorous discipline to translate into shareholder value. At InfraCo, we believe that growth must be driven by execution discipline, not optimism. We do not chase growth for the sake of growth. We enforce a highly disciplined approach to capital allocation,” said Mr Gomwe.

The latest investment also supports the Tourism Recovery and Growth Strategy, which seeks to diversify tourism products, attract premium international visitors and expand accommodation capacity in major destinations. Victoria Falls continues to attract significant public and private sector investment under the Second Republic, with infrastructure upgrades, conference tourism expansion and increased air connectivity reinforcing its position as Zimbabwe’s flagship international destination.

Source: Vic Falls gets major luxury accommodation boost (12/04/2026)

Vic Falls allure spawns tourist rush

 A RECORD number of local and international tourists are visiting the Victoria Falls as the waterfall reaches its peak, defying fears that numbers could drop due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East — which has unsettled global travel patterns and disrupted flight routes.

The country’s premier resort is surging into the peak tourism season, with water plunging into the waterfall with remarkable energy.

The allure of the Falls remains strong with hundreds of Easter holidaymakers, joined by a growing influx of MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) travellers trooping into the resort town.

This has reinforced Victoria Falls’ standing as a destination of global choice that continues to draw visitors.

Across the town, hotels are reporting occupancy rates climbing beyond 70 percent, reflecting a renewed appetite for travel among both domestic and international visitors eager to witness one of nature’s most awe inspiring spectacles.

The Zambezi River’s unusually early swell — typically experienced in May or June — has been driven by heavy rainfall in the upper catchment areas of Zambia and Angola.

The result is a dramatic transformation of Victoria Falls into a roaring curtain of water and mist, its thunderous presence drawing tourists in large numbers as spray rises from the gorge and rainbows shimmer in the sunlight.

Tourism executive Dr Clement Mukwasi said the rapid increase in water volumes took many by surprise, but has been warmly welcomed by industry players.

“Usually, our peak water volumes occur around May or June, but this year we are seeing the Zambezi already overflowing. We had to close rafting a bit earlier because of the high water, but the Falls are at their spectacular best,” he said.

Dr Mukwasi said the timing of the early peak has worked in the industry’s favour, coinciding with an influx of domestic tourists travelling for the Easter holidays, and seamlessly blending into the traditional international peak season running from May to October.

Despite the Middle East conflict, which has affected some international flight connections, Dr Mukwasi said Zimbabwe’s tourism sector continued to demonstrate resilience.

“Since we have the best place to visit in the world in Africa, we think 2026 shall bring very good fortunes. Southern Africa has been peaceful and quiet, and we anticipate many travellers shifting from North Africa to visit Zimbabwe and Victoria Falls in particular,” he said.

Hospitality Association of Zimbabwe Matabeleland North Chapter chairperson Ms Patience Musonza echoed the same optimism, saying operators are expecting strong occupancy levels over the Easter period, driven by families, leisure travellers and regional visitors seeking to reconnect with nature.

“Domestic tourism is helping to push bookings. Just walking inside the rainforest around the waterfall shows how much water there is, which is a plus for us,” she said.

Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (Zimparks) spokesperson Mr Luckmore Safuli said the high water flows are a natural phenomenon that brings benefits beyond tourism, extending into broader conservation gains.

He said the increased volumes enhance the visual grandeur of the Falls, while simultaneously transporting nutrients downstream that support aquatic ecosystems and sustain

“Recent increases in water volumes observed at Victoria Falls are primarily a result of sustained rainfall across the upper Zambezi River catchment. The Falls are currently exhibiting higher-than-average flows for this time of year, resulting in the dramatic spectacle commonly associated with peak flow conditions,” said Mr Safuli.

Mr Safuli said Zimparks continued to work closely with tourism operators to ensure safe access for visitors.

He urged visitors to strictly adhere to posted warnings, avoid swimming or approaching fast flowing sections outside designated areas, and follow guidance from park authorities at all times.

UN Tourism Regional Director for Africa Ms Elcia Grandcourt has meanwhile singled out Zimbabwe as a standout post pandemic tourism success story, highlighting the country’s ability to diversify offerings and capture new market segments.

“Africa has been able to constantly gain centre-stage within the international tourism landscape by seizing new opportunities and demonstrating resilience. Statistics indicate that Africa’s tourism has built back better and resurged stronger,” she said.

“Against this backdrop, Zimbabwe stands out as a successful example. The country has been able to diversify its tourism offerings and products, capturing new tourism segments and shares, which contributed to confirming and further strengthening its destination brand and image.”

According to UN Tourism Barometer data, Africa welcomed 81 million international arrivals in 2025 — an 8 percent increase — while Zimbabwe received 1,6 million international visitors in 2024, underlining its growing global appeal.

Last month, Zimbabwe’s rising profile was further cemented when it clinched the Destination of the Year — Natural Wonders Award at the Pacific Area Travel Writers Association Awards, held on the sidelines of ITB Berlin 2026 in Germany.

Source: Vic Falls allure spawns tourist rush (07/04/2026)

Victoria Falls to host UN Tourism events

 ZIMBABWE is fully prepared to host two major UN Tourism high-level events set for this month, with a visiting delegation from the organisation’s Madrid headquarters expressing satisfaction with the country’s state of readiness.

The events include the 23rd UN Tourism Committee on Tourism and Sustainability (CTS) Meeting and the Second UN Tourism Regional Congress on Women Empowerment in Tourism in Africa and will be held in Victoria Falls from 27 April to 1 May 2026.

This was revealed during a Press conference on Thursday in Victoria Falls, following a Preliminary Assessment Mission by UN Tourism officials who have been in the country from 1 to 3 April 2026 to evaluate preparedness.

The mission was led by UN Tourism Regional Director for Africa, Ms Elcia Grandcourt, accompanied by Senior Project Specialist Ms Rachel Monnier.

Speaking at the Press conference, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Dr Takaruza Munyanyiwa, said the assessment mission had been both productive and encouraging.

“On behalf of the ministry, I am pleased to report that, throughout the Preliminary Mission, the visiting delegation expressed satisfaction with our level of preparedness.

“Their positive assessment is a testament to the hard work, coordination and commitment demonstrated by our teams across Government and the private sector,” she said.

“Whilst we are encouraged by this positive feedback, we remain committed to further strengthening our preparations in the lead-up to 27 April 2026. Our goal is not only to meet expectations but to exceed them, showcasing Zimbabwe as a premier destination for tourism events in the region,” said Dr Munyanyiwa.

Source: Zimbabwe ready to host UN Tourism events, visiting delegation hails First Lady’s tourism patronage (03/04/2026)

Parks and Wildlife Amendment Act set to transform conservation sector

 THE Parks and Wildlife Amendment Act is set to transform Zimbabwe’s conservation sector by strengthening community participation, improving investment prospects and enhancing protection of wildlife resources.

Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting on the Act, Environment, Climate and Wildlife Minister Dr Evelyn Ndlovu said the new legislation marked a major milestone for the country’s wildlife industry as it was a product of collaboration between the Government, conservation partners and stakeholders.

“It is my distinct honour to address you today at this important stakeholders’ meeting on the Parks and Wildlife Amendment Act,” she said.

“Let me begin by congratulating all of us for this key achievement, which is the product of collective effort.

“Our stakeholders in the wildlife industry provided invaluable insights that shaped the provisions of the Act, while our conservation partners and funders offered the technical and financial support that continues to strengthen the sector.”

Minister Ndlovu expressed gratitude to the Attorney-General’s Office for its legal guidance, as well as Treasury and the Global Environment Facility Sixth Cycle (GEF6) project for sponsoring the initiative.

She also commended the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) and officials from the Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife for their commitment to ensuring that the legislation reflects both national priorities and international best practice.

Minister Ndlovu said the Amendment Act introduces key reforms aimed at modernising wildlife management systems and promoting sustainable utilisation of natural resources.

Among the major provisions, the Act promotes the establishment of conservancies to expand conservation landscapes beyond traditional protected areas.

It also strengthens the Communal Areas Management Programme for Indigenous Resources (CAMPFIRE), ensuring that communities living alongside wildlife derive meaningful benefits and play a more active role in protecting natural resources.

“The Act introduces aspects of ownership of wildlife, giving communities and stakeholders greater responsibility and incentive to protect and sustainably utilise resources,” said Minister Ndlovu.

“It also enhances ethics and professionalism in the industry, setting higher standards for conduct, transparency and accountability. This will encourage investment and attract a greater number of tourists to Zimbabwe.”

She said the law also introduces new tenure arrangements for leases to encourage long-term investment in conservation and tourism infrastructure.

Minister Ndlovu said the development comes at a time when the Cabinet recently adopted the Third National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP 3), which integrates biodiversity into national development planning.

The strategy aligns Zimbabwe with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, which outlines targets to halt biodiversity loss, restore degraded ecosystems and strengthen climate resilience.

She said the Parks and Wildlife Amendment Act complements the strategy by operationalising community beneficiation, improving mechanisms for managing human-wildlife conflict and promoting sustainable utilisation of natural capital.

Minister Ndlovu said together the two frameworks advance the Government’s vision of a biodiversity economy in which wildlife, forests, wetlands and ecosystems are recognised as productive assets that drive inclusive growth, food security and resilience.

However, she said the success of the new law will depend on effective implementation.

“We must ensure that these reforms translate into improved protection of endangered species and habitats, enhanced mechanisms for addressing human-wildlife conflict, transparent benefit-sharing models that uplift communities and stronger enforcement capacity for ZimParks and other agencies,” said Minister Ndlovu.

She said Zimbabwe remained committed to building a resilient and inclusive wildlife sector through strengthened governance, sustainable financing such as ecotourism and conservation-linked investment, and deeper collaboration with communities.

Minister Ndlovu said conservation would also remain integrated into national development strategies in line with the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2) and Vision 2030.

“The Parks and Wildlife Amendment Act is not only a legislative milestone, but a catalyst for lasting progress in conservation, investment, tourism and community development,” she said.

Source: Parks and Wildlife Amendment Act set to transform conservation sector (12/03/2026)

See also: 

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (4th December 2025) Unpacking the Parks, Wildlife Management Amendment Act.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (3rd December 2025) President Mnangagwa signs Parks and Wildlife Amendment Act intolaw 

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (2nd December 2025)  Govt sets up human–wildlife conflict relief fund as Parks Actis amended 

Unpacking the Parks, Wildlife Management Amendment Act

 ZIMBABWE is overhauling its wildlife conservation laws through the new Parks and Wildlife Management Amendment Act which was signed into law by the President on December 1, 2025.

The new Act is a transformative piece of legislation that seeks to redefine how Zimbabwe manages and protects its wildlife.

Among other issues, the Amendments to the Parks and Wildlife Act seek to address issues like human-wildlife conflict, establishment of a Wildlife Professionals Council of Zimbabwe, habitat loss and climate change.

What is the major aim of the Parks and Wildlife Management Amendment Act?

The Amendment Act makes major changes in line with international best standards and reflects changes in the national thrust. These changes will provide a legal framework in support of the wildlife and blue economy subsectors of the Zimbabwe Biodiversity Economy. The thrust under NDS2 is to improve and strengthen the contribution of biodiversity to the national economy.

When did the President sign the Amendment Act into law?

The President signed into law the Parks and Wildlife Management Amendment Act on December 01, 2025 after approval by both Parliament and Cabinet.

Does the amended Act replace the Parks and Wildlife Management Act?

No, it doesn’t. The new amended legislation largely seeks to tackle contemporary challenges such as HWC, habitat loss, climate change and outdated laws, including adding new bodies to help manage the country’s wildlife resources.

What are some of the changes which were made in the Definitions Section?

The Definition Section has been modified to include key definitions such as;

(a) “appropriate authority” and “delegated appropriate authority” (under this Act all RDCs are appropriate authorities subject to the Minister’s power to withdraw that status temporarily for certain purposes;

(b) “parks ranger” (this definition will formalise a term already in use among the wildlife fraternity) and “honorary park ranger”

(c) “consumptive sector” and “non-consumptive sector”

(d)  quota

(e) “alienated land”

(f) “animal” and “wildlife”

What new general principles and ownership regimes are included?

The amended Act has new general principles and ownership regimes which seeks to support modern trends including utilising ICT tools for meetings and encourage devolution as much as possible the responsibility for wildlife conservation and management to local communities adjacent to areas of wildlife.

The other key issue is the clarity and reform to the common law position on the ownership of wildlife. The Act reiterates the (res nullii), position and makes a significant distinction however with regards to specially protected animals which are vested in the President and the Act allows ownership of specially protected animals for private persons upon meeting certain set criteria.

Establishment of a Wildlife Professionals Council of Zimbabwe

The law establishes the Wildlife Professionals Council of Zimbabwe which shall be a body to regulate the wildlife sector and the profession. The council will comprise nine members, some of whom will be nominated by wildlife professionals. At present there is no qualification certifying and disciplinary body for wildlife professionals, and this Act part will establish such a body.

Does the amended Act provide a framework for the compensation of victims of human-wildlife conflict?

Yes, it does. The Amendment Act adds the Human Wildlife Conflict Relief Fund whose objective is to offer some monetary relief to innocent victims of any encounter with a wild animal resulting in the death of a victim, or his or her maiming.

It was included to respond to the needs of communities and to give expression to the government’s thrust of assisting communities suffering from HWC.

Clause eight of the Act spells out the objective, source and disbursement modalities of the fund. Poachers and other people injured, maimed or killed in illicit wildlife activities are excluded.

Funds will be drawn from proceeds of the allocated hunting quota and the 0,5 percent human wildlife relief levy on revenue accruing to consumptive and non-consumptive tourism and wildlife-based business as well as money appropriated by Parliament.

Allocation of quotas

The Environment, Climate, and Wildlife Ministry said this Act introduces a clause formalising the existing system of allocation for quotas for hunting of animals and for other consumptive profitable and management activities.

Every quota is scientifically determined to ensure that the animals in question are not consumed beyond a sustainable level. A civil penalty is provided for quota holders who exceed their quota.

What does the amended Act say about donation of wildlife and land?

The donation of wildlife is aligned with international best practice. Land bequeathed to the Authority to manage shall be considered to form part of the Parks Estate.

What about confiscated property?

In the scope and course of its work the Authority often confiscates property used in the commission of illegal wildlife harvesting. The section now provides a mechanism for the Authority to retain confiscated property such as ammunition, boats among others for use in its law enforcement activities.

What about mining in Protected Areas?

This Act provides for the consultation of the President and the Minister responsible for the Parks and Wildlife in relation to mining activities to be conducted in any PA.

Does the Amendment Act provide for the domestication of International Obligations and TFCAs instruments?

Yes, it does. Zimbabwe is signatory to various regional and international instruments.

The Act provides for domestication of such instruments and acknowledges the country’s various commitments.

The Act also provides for the establishment of buffer zones and wildlife corridors as part of efforts to manage and decrease instances of HWC and improve conservation.

What does it say on wildlife trafficking and animal welfare?

The Act has put in key provisions for the management of wildlife and protection of all animal species.

In addition, this Act provides for the incorporation of designated water bodies such as Tugwi-Mukosi, Darwendale, Osborne into the Fifth Schedule as part of Recreational Parks.

What are the major threats to Zimbabwe’s wildlife resources?

Zimbabwe’s wildlife heritage continues to face threats which include poaching, illegal wildlife trade, overexploitation, illegal mining and habitat loss largely due to land development, agriculture, global warming and invasive species.

The country was working closely with other countries and multilateral agencies to take bold new steps to implement strategies to combat the illegal wildlife trade.

How much does Zimbabwe earn from its wildlife related activities?

The Safari Operation Association of Zimbabwe projects that hunting earnings will jump by 25 percent this year to US$50 million, up from US$40 million in the previous year.

This growth is largely due to a continued influx of tourists from key markets, particularly the US, who prioritise conservation practices. When revenue from other downstream services is factored in, the industry’s total earnings are projected to reach US$100 million this year.

Zimbabwe’s  tourism earnings are on the rise and hit the US$1,2 billion mark in 2024 and US$900 million so far in 2025, driven by strong international tourist arrivals.

Zimbabwe – the world’s last wildlife frontier

Zimbabwe is committed to wildlife conservation and over 26 percent of the country’s land is reserved for wildlife. These include national parks, safari areas, recreational parks, sanctuaries, botanical gardens and botanical reserves. It remains an important frontier in Africa and the world for conserving critically endangered species. Poaching levels have declined steadily in the country over the past few years as the parks agency strengthened conservation interventions through support from the AWF, other multilateral agencies and the use of new technologies.

Source: Unpacking the Parks, Wildlife Management Amendment Act (03/12/2025)

See also: 

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (13th March 2025) Parksand Wildlife Amendment Act set to transform conservation sector 

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (3rd December 2025) President Mnangagwa signs Parks and Wildlife Amendment Act intolaw (02/12/2025)

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (2nd December 2025)  Govt sets up human–wildlife conflict relief fund as Parks Actis amended 

 

 

President Mnangagwa signs Parks and Wildlife Amendment Act into law

 PRESIDENT Mnangagwa has signed into law the Parks and Wildlife Management Amendment Act, which seeks to create a fund to compensate victims of human-wildlife conflict, ensure greater community involvement in resource management, and professionalise wildlife experts.

The assent to the law was announced by the Chief Secretary in the Office of the President and Cabinet, Dr Martin Rushwaya, in a Government Gazette published on Friday.

“The following law, which was assented to by His Excellency the President, is published in terms of subsection 6(a) of section 131 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe — Parks and Wildlife Amendment Act (No. 4 of 2025),” reads the notice.

The law provides a framework for compensating those who fall victim to human-wildlife conflict.
Conflicts between people and wildlife have long been a thorny issue, threatening both animals and forests — the backbone of the tourism industry and critical natural resources.

One of the key elements of the Act is the establishment of a fund to compensate those killed or maimed, and for property lost in human-wildlife conflict.

Clause Eight of the Act outlines the objective, source and disbursement modalities of the fund.

“There shall be established a Fund to be called the HWCRF whose objective shall be to offer some monetary relief to victims of human-wildlife conflict, that is to say victims of any encounter with a wild animal resulting in the death of a victim, or his or her maiming (that is to say any permanent disablement of a bodily function) or any other physical injury to the victim,” reads the Act.

“No person shall be entitled to monetary relief where they are injured, maimed or killed by a wild animal while illegally harvesting a wild animal or where they have negligently interfered with wild animals.

Monetary relief shall be paid to the victim from the HWCRF upon a claim made in the prescribed manner by or on behalf of the victim no later than 12 months after the encounter resulting in the death, maiming or injury, in accordance with the prescribed scale for disbursements.”

The law stipulates that funds will be drawn from proceeds of the allocated hunting quota, a 0,5 percent human-wildlife relief levy on revenue accruing to consumptive and non-consumptive tourism and wildlife-based businesses, and money that may be appropriated by Parliament.

The Act also establishes the Wildlife Professionals Council of Zimbabwe, a body mandated to regulate the wildlife sector and the profession. The council will comprise nine members, some of whom will be nominated by wildlife professionals.

Its mandate includes registering individuals as wildlife professionals in their respective sectors or subsectors as a precondition for operating, maintaining a register of all wildlife professionals, defining and enforcing uniform practice and discipline, and formulating and updating codes of ethics for both consumptive and non-consumptive sectors.During debate in the National Assembly, Chairperson of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Environment, Climate and Wildlife, Cde Sam Matema (Zanu-PF), said the Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife should provide a compelling justification for the proposed removal of wildlife ownership rights on privately managed land, ensuring alignment with constitutional property rights and international obligations.

“The Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife should provide for a transparent and equitable quota management system that balances the interests of both the authority and landowners,” said Cde Matema, who is the MP for Buhera Central.

“The Bill should have a provision that clearly stipulates how the benefits will be shared and distributed among the communities surrounding the wildlife areas. The Bill should have a provision that clearly specifies how the Human-Wildlife Conflict Relief Fund (HWCRF) would be resourced, managed and its proceeds distributed among the beneficiaries.”

Source: President Mnangagwa signs Parks and Wildlife Amendment Act into law (02/12/2025)

See also: 

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (13th March 2025) Parksand Wildlife Amendment Act set to transform conservation sector 

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (4th December 2025) Unpacking the Parks, Wildlife Management Amendment Act.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (2nd December 2025)  Govt sets up human–wildlife conflict relief fund as Parks Actis amended 

Govt sets up human–wildlife conflict relief fund as Parks Act is amended

 GOVERNMENT has enacted sweeping reforms to wildlife legislation after gazetting the Parks and Wildlife Amendment Act, a move aimed at strengthening community protection and improving response to rising cases of human–wildlife conflict (HWC).

A key feature of the amended law is the creation of the Human-Wildlife Conflict Relief Fund (HWCRF), which will provide financial support to individuals injured or permanently disabled by wild animals, as well as families of people killed during encounters with wildlife while going about their normal daily activities.

According to the gazetted Act, the new fund is designed specifically to ease the burden on affected households, many of which live in conservation-adjacent communities where human–wildlife encounters have been increasing.

“There is hereby established a Fund to be called the Human Wildlife Conflict Relief Fund (HWCRF) whose object is to offer some monetary relief to victims of human wildlife conflict, that is to say victims of any encounter with a wild animal resulting in the death of a victim, or his or her maiming (that is to say any permanent disablement of a bodily function) or any other physical injury to the victim,” read part of the Amendment Act.

The introduction of the fund comes as communities in wildlife-rich provinces continue to bear the brunt of elephant attacks, livestock predation, and dangerous encounters involving species such as crocodiles, buffalo, lions and hippos.

The amendment is expected to formalise compensation mechanisms, streamline reporting processes and ensure state-backed support for victims—an issue that has long been raised by traditional leaders, rural district councils and conservation stakeholders.

Further details on the operational structure, funding model and claim procedures for the fund are expected to be announced as the Ministry of Environment, Climate, and Wildlife begins implementing the new provisions.

The revised Parks and Wildlife Act marks one of the most significant legislative updates in years, with the Government positioning the reform as part of broader efforts to balance wildlife conservation with community safety and livelihood protection.

Source: Govt sets up human–wildlife conflict relief fund as Parks Act is amended (02/12/2025)

See also: 

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (4th December 2025) Unpackingthe Parks, Wildlife Management Amendment Act.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (3rd December 2025) PresidentMnangagwa signs Parks and Wildlife Amendment Act into law 

Livingstone plans major tourism facelift

 A new project that aims to position Livingstone as a “resilient, competitive and inclusive tourist destination” has been announced by the Zambian Minister of Tourism, Rodney Sikumba. It will focus on improving the city’s streetscape and urban infrastructure to enhance visitor experience and overall destination appeal.

The Livingstone Town Centre Development Programme (LTCDP) is part of the country’s Green, Resilient and Transformational Tourism Development Plan supported by US$100 million in World Bank financing.

“Of the 2.2 million tourists who arrived in Zambia in 2024, between 65% and 70% landed in Livingstone,” Sikumba said. “This creates a lot of congestion on the road and it is thus our considered view to install more traffic lights.” The LTCDP will also include the rehabilitation of 8.3 km of inner roadsand the installation of nearly 1 000 streetlights to improve safety and mobility.

Industry players have welcomed the initiative, hoping it will be a strategic step to future-proof Livingstone as one of Zambia’s vital tourism destinations.

“Livingstone’s tourism offering remains anchored in its iconic natural asset, Victoria Falls, yet its long-term competitiveness will depend on enhancing the connectivity, visitor experience and urban infrastructure that support the broader destination,” Lindi Mthethwa, Regional Director: Sales and Marketing at Minor Hotels Middle East and Africa, told Tourism Update.

Key challenges include limited diversification of tourism products beyond Victoria Falls along with the need for stronger urban planning, clearer signage and better maintenance of public spaces across the town, Mthethwa added.

“Enhancing the flow between the airport, town and the Falls area, as well as upgrading amenities such as cafés, craft markets and green spaces, would make Livingstone a more dynamic, walkable and guest-friendly hub,” said Mthethwa.

Air access concerns

Lauren Summers, Marketing Director at Green Safaris, told Tourism Update that improved connectivity and air access are crucial to Livingstone’s growth as a leading tourist destination.

“One of the key challenges continues to be air access. At present, Livingstone has fewer direct international flights compared to Victoria Falls, which can make travel slightly less convenient for visitors. Enhancing air connectivity – by increasing the frequency and variety of flights to Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport – would make a meaningful difference to accessibility and overall visitor numbers,” said Summers.

Operating costs and infrastructure are central to Livingstone’s competitiveness as a tourism destination, Summers highlighted. She noted that the city’s high operating cost environment — including landing fees — can discourage airlines from adding routes. Reducing these costs to make the airport more price-competitive could play a vital role in positioning Livingstone as a stronger regional gateway, said Summers.

At the same time, she emphasised that improvements in road networks, streetlighting, pedestrian pathways and public spaces are essential to creating a cohesive and accessible urban environment that supports visitors and local communities.

Summers also said there is a need to consider the broader financial environment for tourism businesses. “Ensuring local taxation and operating costs for tourism businesses remain balanced and aligned with broader economic realities will be critical to sustaining competitiveness, attracting further investment and supporting Livingstone’s long-term growth as a leading tourist destination.” 

Source: Livingstone plans major tourism facelift (14/10/2025)

Zimbabwe Named Top of the World’s Best Countries to Visit in 2025, According to Forbes Travel Guide - Or Has It?

Minister for Tourism Appears to Accept Prestigious Accolade After Ministry's Own Social Media Page Spins Story with No Substance

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs, 13th October 2025

For the last few days the Zimbabwean Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry has been promoting a social media post claiming that Zimbabwe was 'recently named by travel experts as the world’s best country to visit in 2025.'

The post, shared on the Ministry's Facebook page three times since 10th October, simply features a photograph of the Victoria Falls with the text 'Forbes - Zimbabwe named the world's best country to visit in 2025, according to travel experts,' without giving any further details or linking to any specific article.

The claim appears after growing negative online and media coverage over increasing tourism development pressures at the Victoria Falls and which threaten the UNESCO World Heritage Site status of the Zimbabwean side of the Falls (Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs, 27th September 2025).

A quick internet search reveals that the national press and tourism industry have reacted with similar claims, with The Herald of 13th October reporting "Zimbabwe has been named the 2025 world best country to visit by Forbes magazine, a renowned global publication" and quoting Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Barbara Rwodzi. 

"We are overjoyed by the acknowledgement from Forbes and global travel experts. As you know, its prestigious when you get such recognition from Forbes and it is confirmation that Zimbabwe is a safe, peaceful, war-free tourist destination," (The Herald, 13th October 2025)

Several online regional tourism news websites and many local tour operators have also picked up on the story and repeated the claims in the belief that Zimbabwe has been recognised by Forbes in their prestigious annual list of top global travel destinations to visit.

But has Zimbabwe really received this grand accolade? The original article on the Forbes.com website, titled 'The World’s Best Countries To Visit In 2025, According To Travel Experts' was posted on 5th August 2025, and is not in fact an award from the prestigious Forbes Travel Guide, or even the opinion of independent 'Travel Experts,' but is instead an advertorial feature written by a freelance travel writer and solely based on the online search results from one online travel booking website, kayak.co.uk.

In listing Zimbabwe top of this list, the feature detailed simply "Zimbabwe cities like Bulawayo have seen more than 80% increase in flight searches on Kayak, while Harare has increased by 56% for summer this year."

So despite the grand headlines and Ministerial self-congratulations, Zimbabwe has not been voted top of any global travel destination list by Forbes. Forbes Travel Guide published its prestigious list of top destinations to visit for 2025 in January (Forbes Travel Guide Top 12 Destinations for 2025). Zimbabwe did not make the list. The Minister for Tourism appears therefore to be the victim of her own Ministry's over active spinning of stories on social media, and that rather than drawing attention away from controversial developments at Victoria Falls, their mistake will in fact help put them in the global spotlight. How embarrassing.

Read about the growing tourism development pressures facing the Victoria Falls and which threaten the UNESCO World Heritage Site listing - Keep Victoria Falls Wild.

Conservation Campaigners Consider Call to Boycott Zim Side of Victoria Falls

(Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, 27th Sept 2025, updated 8th October 2025) 

Conservation campaign group, Keep Victoria Falls Wild, has announced it is considering launching a call for an international tourism boycott of the Zimbabwean side of the Victoria Falls in response to increasing tourism development pressures which continue to threaten the future viability of the UNESCO World Heritage Site (WHS) which it shares with its northern neighbour, Zambia.

In a social media post on their Facebook page, posted to coincide with World Tourism Day, 27th September 2025, the group highlighted the controversial Baines Restaurant development, located a short distance above the Falls and constructed within the WHS 'Highly Ecologically Sensitive Zone' (HSEZ) which prevents all new tourism development.

"A legal challenge against the development, launched in mid-2022 when construction first started at the site, has still yet to be heard by the courts, resulting in a second legal case, raised at the beginning of this year in an attempt to conclude this matter. Despite all the evidence, and negative publicity, the restaurant still remains open, with the owners of the operation, Scanner Investments (trading as Victoria Falls Investments) still claiming it is located in a permitted development zone and even attempting to sue a local resident for over US$2 million in damages in an attempt to silence the truth. All this after the new National Park Management Plan, published in 2024, presented a map which confirmed the site is located in the HESZ 'no new development zone.' It speaks volumes, not only of the state of Zimbabwe's legal system, but also indicates significant political support and influence over this development."

In response to the US$2 million libel claim Keep Victoria Falls Wild published a special report which categorically showed the development is, and always has been, located within the UNESCO WHS HESZ (KVFW, June 2025). 

The Baines Restaurant, Victoria Falls, constructed

within the World Heritage Site 'no new development zone'

The National Park Management Plan map is also definitive in showing the location as within the WHS HESZ (Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority, 2024).

Map showing the Victoria Falls World Heritage Site Management Zones 

(adapted from ZPWMA, 2024, click for larger view)

Questioning why, therefore, the restaurant remains open, the statement continued with a call for the tourism sector itself to stand up against illegitimate developments, or face the consequences of further negative publicity as well as a de-valued tourism product as new developments degrade and fragment the local environment of the Falls.

"The development is a stain on Victoria Falls' tourism industry and will continue to create negative media coverage until it is closed, the structures removed, and the site returned to nature. Perhaps it's time we called for an international boycott - not just of this restaurant, but of all tourism to the Zimbabwean side of the Falls, where a wave of tourism development proposals threaten conservation areas within the WHS and surrounding area which have been designated as 'permanently restricted' against all new development since the 1970s - including the riverside 'tree lodge' development which is being proposed by House of Chinhara Hospitality Investments Ltd and which is apparently to be managed by the InterContinental Hotel Group - or so they think. It's time that Zimbabwe's tourism sector sorted its act out and stood up against these illegitimate developments, which not only threaten the natural environment of the Falls, and future of the World Heritage Site, but will also diminish the tourism value of the Falls and limit the future viability of the tourism sector."

The riverside 'tree lodge' development was initially described as a '24 bed semi-permanent tented tree lodge' when first disclosed to the public in 2020. The proposal has subsequently grown into a 57-room 5-star luxury lodge, to be developed by House of Chinhara Hospitality Ltd and managed under InterContinental Hotel Group's exclusive Six Senses brand.

The list of recent tourism developments within this section of the Victoria Falls National Park and WHS HESZ also includes the 'Rock Pool,' a riverside bar developed and managed by the Park Authority, and the launch of tours to Cataract Island by Zambezi Crescent, operators of the Victoria Falls River Lodge, with the recent development of a jetty site a short distance upstream of the Falls to facilitate tours.

In addition Victoria Falls City Council have announced the development of the upstream Victoria Falls Resort, sale of Stand 1815 for a tourism hotel development (on the north-western edge of the Elephant Hills Golf Course) and revealed plans for the development of two more areas of virgin bush for a tourism development, one on the south-eastern side of the Golf Course and Zambezi Drive/Big Tree area and the other on the road loop down to the Falls rainforest, all located on the boundaries of the WHS and within the surrounding 500m 'Buffer Zone' which is supposed to limit development. These latter areas, identified in the 2024 Victoria Falls City Council Master Plan, were previously identified as being 'restricted permanently' from all new development, with the exception of infrastructure essential to its management, under the 1975 town development plan (known as the Outline Plan, and identified as Areas 7 & 14 under the 2001 Combination Plan).

Developments threatening the Victoria Falls World Heritage Site

(click for larger view)

Despite all these ongoing and planned developments, Zimbabwean Authorities chose not to disclose any new developments to UNESCO in the recent 2024 State of Conservation report for the site, thus failing in their obligation to inform the World Heritage Committee of all new developments affecting the WHS (State Parties, 2024). A new report is due to be submitted at the end of the year in advance of the next conference of the World Heritage Committee in mid-2026.

The Victoria Falls was designated as a World Heritage Site in December 1989, following the joint submission of the site by Zambia and Zimbabwe, known as the ‘State Parties,’ to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) for consideration on the exclusive global list. The World Heritage List is managed under the World Heritage Convention (1972), of which both countries are signatories. As parties to the convention, the two countries are pledged to keep the Victoria Falls/Mosi-oa-Tunya World Heritage Site (VFWHS) ‘intact for future generations.’

A call for an international tourism boycott of the Zimbabwean side of the Falls, even if targeted against certain operations and operators, could have significant impacts on the country's tourism industry which relies heavily on international visitors to the Falls. Zimbabwe's volatile tourism sector has historically been highly vulnerable to negative international perceptions and is still to recover to pre-pandemic levels, despite government ambitions for a US$5 billion annual tourism economy by 2025. The country recorded 1,613,901 national tourism arrivals in 2024, significantly short of the pre-pandemic high of 2,579,974 arrivals recorded in 2019. Meanwhile Zambia recorded a record 2,199,820 foreign arrivals over 2024.

Zimbabwe’s tourism sector was reported to have generated 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).

Read more on the Keep Victoria Falls Wild website.

Further Information

Keep Victoria Falls Wild (June 2025) Special Report on the Riverine Fringe. (download)

State Parties (2024) State of Conservation Report. Victoria Falls/Mosi-oa-Tunya World Heritage Site.

Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (2024) Zambezi/Victoria Falls National Park General Management Plan (2024-2034). April 2024.

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