Zimparks Rangers Kill Problem Elephant In Victoria Falls

 The Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (Zimparks), on Saturday, September 28, responded to a distress call from a resident in Victoria Falls and gunned down a problem elephant that had entered their yard.

As reported by The Standard, the elephant was shot around 5 AM, prompting outrage among animal conservationists who argued that the elephant left behind calves. Said an animal rights activist:

An elephant cow was shot dead on the streets of Victoria Falls today (yesterday) leaving her three orphaned calves.

This has caused an outcry. The elephant was just eating some plants outside someone’s garden and it was shot by parks rangers at 5 AM.

However, Zimparks spokesperson Tinashe Farawo defended the decision to kill the elephant, saying it had posed a threat to human life. Said Farawo:

Yes there was an incident of elimination of an elephant, human life was under threat and normal in this is part of our wildlife control measures.

I do not know how they come to the conclusion that this elephant had three young calves.

You know we do not use emotions when we deal with these things. We deal with facts.

The fact still remains when human life is under threat, that is how we react and we are not apologetic.

I think it’s not right for people to invoke emotions around problem animals control.

When human life is under threat we react, its provided for in our policy and legislation and that is what we have done.

How do they prove that this is the calf of the eliminated elephant, they are just playing games.

The government recently announced plans to cull 200 elephants to provide food for those facing shortages as a result of the ongoing drought.

Source:  Zimparks Rangers Kill Problem Elephant In Victoria Falls (29/09/2024)

Island Tours Devalue Tourist Experience at Victoria Falls

(Zimbabwe, 25th September 2024).

The Mosi-oa-Tunya/Victoria Falls UNESCO World Heritage Listing places great emphasis on the protection of the immediate area of the Falls from tourism and other developments in an attempt to keep the views of the Falls as natural as possible and to preserve the experience of tourists, on both sides of the river.

Visitors to the Zimbabwean 'Rainforest' have their view of the Falls marred
by a group visiting the Devil's Pool and Livingstone Island 

from the Zambian side of the river.

For this reason a 'no new development' zone surrounds the core of the Site, yet the launch of tours to Cataract Island from the Zimbabwean side of the river, also highlights an existing issue on the Zambian side, where tours to Livingstone Island have been established for many years. The growth in popularity of the associated Devil's Pool activity in recent years especially has significantly increased the number and the visual impact of the tours, with groups of tourists clambering over the rocks being highly visible from the main tourism viewpoints on the Zimbabwean side of the river (as illustrated in the first photograph, above) and including temporary structures, erected each season, which are again visible from the Zimbabwean side of the river (second photo, below).

The view across to Livingstone Island from the Zimbabwean side of the river,

with temporary structures used for tourists in full view.

In response to the popularity of these tours, Zimbabwean authorities have controversially authorized the use of Cataract Island for similar activities, with yet further negative impacts on the view of tourists (third photo, below), whilst also ignoring the impacts of these tourist upon the fragile ground flora of the island (the last remaining area of the rainforest undisturbed by tourism), as well as an online petition against the use of Cataract Island for tourism which received over 40,000 signatories.

Visitors to the Zimbabwean 'Rainforest' now also have their view of the Falls 

marred by groups visiting Cataract Island.

The special status of the Victoria Falls as a National Monument, National Park and UNESCO World Heritage Site aims to protect their rich natural and cultural history for future generations, also ensuring that they remain a global tourism attraction. Yet Park Authorities on the south bank have in recent years approved a wave of tourism developments within the highly protected 'red zone,' part of an ongoing trend in developing private tourism concessions within the the wider National Park area and commercialisation of the Falls in search of ever increasing tourism receipts. For this increasingly devalued experience overseas visitors are charged an ever increasing visitor fee - currently US$50 for the Zimbabwean side of the river.

The UNESCO World Heritage Committee, having previously requested a full independent Environmental and Social Impact Assessment before the commencement of any tourism activities on Cataract Island, are yet to comment specifically on the launch tours. No ESIA process had been conducted, as evidenced by the lack of public disclosure before the launch of the tours in April 2021 (shortly after the UNESCO Monitoring Mission to the Site).

Further Information

Tours to Cataract Island are operated by Zambezi Crescent, managers of the upstream Victoria Falls River Lodge (also located within the highly sensitive 'red zone') under the promotional banner of the 'Cataract Pool' - see www.cataractpool.com.

Read more on the launch of tours to Cataract Island on our website here. 

Visit the Keep Victoria Falls Wild website for more on the wave of tourism development issues surrounding the conservation and protection of the Falls.

#keepvictoriafallswild #victoriafalls #Zimbabwe #Zambia #zambezi #UNESCO #worldheritage #overtourism #overdevelopment #zimparks

Government in another promise to fix Bulawayo-Victoria Falls highway

AFTER numerous failed promises, the government has vowed to reconstruct the unnavigable Bulawayo – Victoria Falls highway, which has become a death trap for motorists.

Government has been making promises to address the road which has become difficult to navigate due to the potholes which have been a cause for many accidents.

Earlier this year, President Emmerson Mnangagwa, promised to address the road channel to the resort town with nothing tangible having materialised.

During the road rehabilitation programme which was carried out mid-year ahead of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Summit, the major highway among others in Matabeleland region, was left behind.

Responding to questions in the Senate Thursday, the Minister of Transport and lnfrastructure Development, Felix Mhona said government will address the road situation.

“I have traversed on most of the roads that he has mentioned. If you would relate, we were doing some sections, especially the Tsholotsho-Kezi road where we have done 5km which to me is inadequate given the length of the road.

‘We need to start from somewhere. Let me also acknowledge that in terms of road infrastructure, we have a road network close to 90 000km. Some areas were marginalised and I want to hasten to acknowledge that for years, our roads were neglected, not only the city roads but even rural roads.

“Some of our roads especially those going to places of our revolutionary icons, the roads were neglected. Alas, with the advent to the Second Republic, we have taken those roads on our radar,” said Mhona.

“Of great importance is the Victoria Falls road that the Senator has talked about, where we are going to start doing the road from Beitbridge to Bulawayo then to Victoria Falls.

“You will see us moving towards those roads and like the approach that we have agreed, not particularly doing 5km, but you will see us extending the works to quite a number of kilometres.”

Source: Government in another promise to fix Bulawayo-Victoria Falls highway (11/09/24)

American tourists survive aircraft accident in Livingstone

AN adventurous fly over the Victoria falls almost ended deadly after the helicopter that two American tourist had booked was trying to return to the airstrip and it’s engine suddenly stopped prompting the pilot to apply emergency landing procedures yesterday.

Details are that around 16:30 hours, the two American Nationals who are lodging at Royal Hotel booked the helicopter from Batoka Sky Livingstone to fly over the Victoria Falls and the surrounding areas.

The aircraft was flown by a male South African pilot, Steenkamp Reyneke, aged 33 and their journey took off from Batoka Sky at 16:40 hours. The duration of the flight was 15 minutes. But as time for landing came, Reyneke was trying to return the Aircraft to the airstrip, heading to Chrisma Hotel and  flying above the sewer ponds.

Suddenly as the helicopter flew in the Zambian sky, its engine stopped, prompting the pilot to apply emergency landing procedures. However, the circumstances left the pilot with no option but to execute an emergency landing in an area which seemed to be open and without obstacles, but eventually landed in the sewer ponds as the aircraft could not glide further.

The accident happened at 17:10 hours, leaving one of the helicopter rotar blades deformed, but with no serious damages. Luckily for the two passengers and pilot, they survived without any injuries and were immediately evacuated after the accident.

Batoka Sky Livingstone Manager, Daniel Geldenhuys, 44 then reported the matter to Livingstone Central police station. Southern Province police Commanding Officer, Auxensio Daka who confirmed the incident said police visited the scene and found the helicopter partially submerged in the sewer ponds which is covered by aqua [acquatic] vegetation.

Source: American tourists survive aircraft accident in Livingstone (21/08/24)

Zimbabwe Tourism Industry has achieved 2025 US$5 billion target

 Leonard Ncube – leonard.ncube@chronicle.co.zw

GOVERNMENT believes the tourism industry has achieved its US$5 billion target set for 2025 and is working on a digital system that will help monitor and account for every transaction to close leakages and guarantee the sector’s contribution to the national economy.

Government set a target to achieve a US$5 billion tourism industry by 2025 spearheaded by arrivals and developments in the sector.

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

Dep Minister Mnangagwa said arrivals and bookings over the years show that the US$5 billion target had been met.

He was speaking soon after leading a ceremonial tee-off at the 2024 Sterling Group International Pairs Golf Tournament National Finals being played at Elephant Hills Golf Course in Victoria Falls.

More than 120 amateur golfers from across the country were expected to participate at the tournament for a chance to progress to the World Finals in Tenerife, Spain next month.

Sterling Group of Hotels are sponsoring the tournament in partnership with Albatross Golf Safaris and Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) with the sporting event coming in as one of the activities aimed at drumming up the brand Zimbabwe campaign, and complementing the Vision 2030.

“Just for these two days we are looking at about US$200 000 spent by people who came, looking at occupancy. In the long run we are saying we want to push domestic tourism as people move to play golf so that the US$5 billion industry is achieved very easy.

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

Dep Minister Mnangagwa said domestic tourism was more important than to wait for international tourists.

He said for any economy to move there is need for spending and creation of employment which helps in growth towards attaining vision 2030.

“We are going to surpass mining and agriculture and soon we will be number 1 contributor to the gross domestic product. What we are saying about under-declaring is, we are coming up with a system or software where every organisation will be made to adhere to and we will be using it to calculate automatically who came in and how many days spent.

“So it is going to be very easy. It will be digital, that is where the world is going. His Excellency President Mnangagwa is pushing towards that and as a Ministry we found it prudent that we also go in that line where every calculation is done and we are able to predict,” said the Dep Minister.

With reference to the ongoing Sadc Heads of State Summit, Dep Minister Mnangagwa said it is a key development that drives tourism as all 16 member States are closely following the event which on its own is advertising for the whole region to recognise that Zimbabwe is there and is a good destination to visit.

Source:  Zimbabwe Tourism Industry has achieved 2025 US$5 billion target (17/08/24)

Victoria Falls City Master Plan: Shaping the Future of Victoria Falls

August 1, 2024 

The City of Victoria Falls recently hosted a pivotal meeting with key stakeholders to discuss the progress of the City’s master plan development. This collaborative effort brought together representatives from the local government, the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works, the tourism industry, community organizations, and urban planning experts. The meeting was marked by a spirit of open dialogue and a shared commitment to shaping a sustainable future for Victoria Falls.

A Collaborative Effort for a Sustainable Future

The gathering was an important milestone in the development of the City’s master plan, reflecting the collaborative spirit of all participants. Stakeholders engaged in comprehensive discussions, addressing various aspects of urban development, tourism management, and community welfare. This inclusive approach ensures that the master plan will be well-rounded, addressing the needs and aspirations of all sectors of society.

Key Highlights of the Meeting

Open Dialogue and Shared Commitment

One of the standout features of the meeting was the open dialogue between the diverse group of stakeholders. Representatives from different sectors shared their insights, concerns, and suggestions, fostering a sense of unity and mutual understanding. This shared commitment to Victoria Falls’ future underscored the importance of collective action in achieving sustainable development.

Focus on Sustainable Development

Sustainability was a central theme throughout the discussions. Stakeholders emphasized the need for environmentally responsible urban planning that preserves the natural beauty of Victoria Falls while accommodating growth and development. Strategies to minimize the environmental footprint of new developments, enhance green spaces, and promote eco-friendly tourism were key topics of conversation.

Integration of Tourism and Community Welfare

The meeting also highlighted the critical balance between promoting tourism and ensuring the well-being of the local community. Participants discussed ways to enhance the tourism infrastructure while safeguarding the interests of residents. Ideas such as improving local amenities, creating job opportunities, and ensuring fair distribution of tourism revenue were explored to ensure that the benefits of tourism are felt by all.

Pathway to Finalizing the Master Plan

The constructive discussions have paved the way for the Council to finalize the master plan ahead of the June 30th deadline. The insights and feedback gathered from the meeting will be instrumental in refining the plan, ensuring it addresses the diverse needs of the community and aligns with the City’s vision for the future.

Transformative Era of Development

This collaborative approach sets the stage for a transformative era of development in Victoria Falls. By integrating the perspectives of various stakeholders, the master plan aims to create a balanced and inclusive framework for the City’s growth. The plan will prioritize the well-being of both the local community and the City’s thriving tourism industry, fostering a harmonious and prosperous future.

Looking Forward: A Shared Vision

The City of Victoria Falls is committed to maintaining the momentum generated by this successful meeting. As the finalization of the master plan approaches, the Council will continue to engage with stakeholders, ensuring that the plan remains dynamic and responsive to emerging challenges and opportunities.

Source: Victoria Falls City Master Plan: Shaping the Future of Victoria Falls (01/08/2024)

NRZ struggles to manage properties

 THE National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) is losing potential revenue, estimated in tens of thousands of dollars, due to its inability to effectively control and manage its vast properties across the country.

The parastatal is struggling with the challenge of securing and leveraging its extensive real estate assets, which are currently underutilised or mismanaged.

The properties, scattered throughout the country represent a substantial potential revenue stream that NRZ has not been able to fully capitalise on.

The lack of control and proper management over these assets is impacting the organisation’s financial stability and its ability to invest in crucial railway infrastructure and operations.

Effective management and strategic utilisation of these assets could provide a significant boost to the parastatal’s revenue, helping to address its financial challenges.

NRZ is arguably the richest State-owned enterprise in the country in terms of immovable assets.

Last year NRZ formed an asset verification committee comprising its various departments to identify and verify assets after some of its properties were not being accounted for.

Briefing the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Transport and Infrastructural Development during a tour of the organisation’s properties in Victoria Falls last Friday, NRZ general manager Ms Respina Zinyanduko said they managed to recover several properties along the Gwanda railway line and four houses in Bulawayo.

In Victoria Falls, besides vast pieces of land and properties along the railway line, NRZ jointly owns the Victoria Falls Hotel and Victoria Falls Bridge with Zambia Railways through Emerged Railways Properties.

The NRZ also owns Landela Complex, a property that has three blocks that house several shops among other businesses in the tourism sector.

The property is one of the assets NRZ is struggling to repossess after leasing it out to Landela Safari Adventure (Pvt) Limited in 2007.

NRZ initially leased the property to Landela Safari and later amended it into a joint venture.

The lease and joint venture agreement expired last year but NRZ has been failing to repossess the property after Landela Safari owner, Mr Steward Cranswick took the matter to the High Court where it is still pending.

Landela Complex also runs Landela Lodge in Masue. In 2016, the company made headlines after the owners erected a fence on part of Chamabondo Forest in what is now being developed into Masue City by the Government.

Ms Zinyanduko told the Portfolio Committee that because of the dispute over the Landela Complex, NRZ did not renew the lease it entered with the safari company upon its expiry last November.

“The lease was converted into a joint venture and ever since the NRZ has not been paid. The joint venture agreement and lease expired in November last year and NRZ tried on different occasions to engage Landela who did not attend board meetings,” she said.

“We are going for arbitration, so this is one of the challenges we have.”
Ms Zinyanduko said given the issue is still before the courts, she could not give more details.

“We realised that NRZ has a lot of properties, and some of them are in the asset register, but could not account who exactly is on the asset. We formed a joint committee which has so far done the southern region and we have recovered quite a lot of properties,” she said.

“Some of them were in private hands for some time and we are glad that we have managed to recover a lot of them in Gwanda line and also Bulawayo where we recovered four houses that were leased a long time ago by employees who then retired and never surrendered the assets.”

NRZ had a similar agreement with Hyde Safaries at Kennedy Annex Farm, which it has since revised and it is now getting rentals.

“These are lessons learnt that where we don’t have control it doesn’t work. Going forward we are amending these joint ventures,” Ms Zinyanduko told the committee.

The Portfolio Committee chairperson, Cde Knowledge Kaitano expressed concern over the development.

“We have realised that NRZ has vast assets which can provide a lot of capital injection that is required to revitalise the company. However, we have been told that certain properties have been rented for over 25 years by individuals who are getting rentals from properties which are not theirs,” he said.

“We have urged NRZ to ensure that they recover all the assets because they are a good source of capital injection into the revitalisation of the company. We want NRZ to be an enabler of economic activity that contributes to the growth of our economy, development of our people and realisation of an upper-middle -income by 2030.”

Source: NRZ struggles to manage properties (25th July 2024)