UNESCO hails Zambia, Zim joint efforts to safeguard Victoria Falls

 The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) has hailed the Zambian Government for preserving and safeguarding the Victoria Falls World Heritage Site (VFWHS).

UNESCO General Conference President Kondker Talha, said Zambia had earned global recognition for its efforts and commitment to safeguarding one of the world's most treasured heritage sites.

Speaking after touring the site in Livingstone yesterday [3rd May], Mr Talha praised the National Heritage Conservation for effectively managing the facility. 

He also commended Zambia and Zimbabwe for their strong collaboration in preserving the site's outstanding universal value, describing it as a model of effective joint stewardship.

'I am particularly impressed by the collaboration between Zambia and Zimbabwe in preserving the outstanding universal value of the property,' he said.

The conference president who toured key sections of the falls, including the Eastern Cataracts on the Zambian side, called for strengthened efforts between the two countries in safeguarding the heritage site.

He said his visit to both Zambia and Zimbabwe further underscored the shared responsibility between the two neighbouring countries in managing the globally celebrated natural wonder, which was inscribed under the UNESCO World Heritage Convention.

NHCC conservation officer John Zulu said the visit reaffirmed the strength of bilateral cooperation and provided an important platform to showcase ongoing conservation efforts.

Mr Zulu said such high-level engagements not only validated Zambia's conservation initiatives, but also enhanced international recognition and support for heritage preservation.

He said the continued protection of the falls remains critical, given its global significance as a shared natural asset.

'The visit highlights Zambia's growing reputation as a responsible custodian of natural heritage and reinforces its position on the global stage as a leader in sustainable tourism and conservation.' he said.

He said the commission was looking forward to more collaboration between the two neighbouring countries.

Source: UNESCO hails Zambia, Zim joint efforts to safeguard Victoria Falls (The Times of Zambia, 4th May 2026)