ConserveZim

29/08/2025

Environmental Damage by Miners "Worse Than Income," says Minister

John Cassim

In a no holds barred discussion, Deputy Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Water, Fisheries and Rural Development, Davies Marapira condemned the use of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) reports as a form of "greenwashing" by some mining companies.

He said this at a side event of the Zimbabwe Agricultural Show in Harare on Thursday, where he argued that some companies cause severe environmental damage that creates significant challenges for farmers.

"I was born on a farm almost 60 years ago," Marapira said. "There was no active mining then, but if you go back to Nyamunda where I was born, it's almost upside down, with farmers crying. People claim to be miners, but they are environmental damagers all around the farms, causing no social peace or bringing no income, only destruction to the environment."

Marapira also referenced the Chinese Ambassador, who shared that China had faced similar issues but now has "bylaws" and "laws which they respect," resulting in a "peaceful and clean environment."

ESG reporting provides insight into an organization's management of its non-financial risks related to environmental impact, social responsibility, and corporate governance.

According to the Marapira, while some mining companies practice robust social responsibility, many do not.

This has left farmers vulnerable to polluted water, posing a health risk to both humans and livestock, open pits left near farms, which are dangerous traps for livestock, and diverted rivers, causing water shortages that affect irrigation for farmers.

Marapira stated that some mining companies use their ESG reports as a cover-up for the damage they cause, claiming to reduce environmental impact without taking real action.

"I am a practical person and don't like theories," Marapira said. "We have to go on the ground and speak on things which we see, the damages, and measure the amount of damages as opposed to the income which we think we may be generating."

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He questioned the true value of such mining activities, "We are talking of possibly getting US$ 1.3 billion from gold, but the damage which would have created would be US$ 6 billion.
So, we are not moving. We are saying we are getting money, but when it comes to environment or damage, we are doing worst to our environment. And in your view, why would we need to have ESG-aligned growth strategies?"

While ESG reporting is currently voluntary in Zimbabwe, primarily for companies listed on the stock exchange, the government is pushing for a wider adoption of responsible mining practices.

Pfungwa Kunaka, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development, explained that his ministry is championing a Responsible Mining Initiative, which was launched by President Emmerson Mnangagwa in May 2023.

"As government, we have a responsibility to enforce our laws to ensure that something is done in terms of rehabilitation," Kunaka said. "This is a collective initiative. We cannot just leave it to the miners."

He emphasized that responsible mining requires a collective effort from all levels of society, including community and traditional leaders.

According to Kunaka, a key aspect of this framework is to ensure environmental compliance by encouraging companies to adopt cleaner technologies, renewable energy integration and responsible waste management.

Steady Kangata, the Director of Environmental Management Services at the Environmental Management Agency (EMA), agreed that a "whole government approach" is necessary to combat greenwashing within the mining sector.

He noted that environmental degradation is not only caused by large mining companies but also by the country's nearly 1.5 million artisanal miners.

"It is unfortunate that environmental degradation is not just being done by big mining companies but everyone," Kangata explained. "Yet when it comes to policing as EMA, there are only about 300 of us."

28/08/2025

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19/08/2025

FOR THE LOVE OF DOGS.

ARE YOU A DOG LOVER LOOKING TO UNLOCK YOUR PET'S FULL POTENTIAL?
DO YOU WANT TO UNDERSTAND YOUR DOG'S BEHAVIOR AND STRENGTHEN YOUR BOND?

Book early and be part of this exciting event

Zimparks UICN - Centre de coopération pour la Méditerranée SADC WWF Heart and Soul ZIM CITES Tactical K-9 Africa Von Edinstven K9 Working dogs ZNSPCA

18/08/2025

Patrick Kilonzo Mwalua, a Kenyan pea farmer, became a lifeline for wildlife in Tsavo West National Park during periods of extreme drought.

As rainfall disappeared for months, Mwalua took it upon himself to deliver 3,000 gallons of fresh water daily to dry watering holes. Animals like elephants, buffalo, zebras, and antelope often gathered in anticipation, having learned to associate the sound of his truck with relief.

Beyond his water deliveries, Mwalua founded the conservation initiative Tsavo Volunteers, which educated local communities—especially schoolchildren—on the importance of protecting wildlife. His tireless work attracted international attention and support, including fundraising efforts from abroad to help continue his mission.

Mwalua passed away in June 2024 after a long battle with kidney failure. His legacy lives on as a symbol of compassion, dedication, and the power of one person to make a lasting impact on both people and animals.

18/08/2025

15/08/2025

From Textbooks to Tracking Rhinos: How a Journey to Matobo Ignited a Spark for Conservation

-From fish farming to heritage sites, pupils discover nature’s wonders, linking lessons to life during an unforgettable learning journey.

By Pauline Chibvuma and John Mokwetsi

HARARE, ZIMBABWE – For 12-year-old Rufaro Matimbe, the world beyond her small village in Chimanimani existed only in the pages of her schoolbooks. The hills of Zimbabwe’s Matobo National Park, the prehistoric rock art, and the majestic rhinos were just pictures—distant and unreal.

That changed when she won a place on a life-changing excursion, showing her not just a new part of the country but her own potential as a guardian of the environment.

Rufaro was one of 50 pupils in the TUI Junior Academy – Clean Green Zimbabwe Initiative, a pilot project by the TUI Care Foundation, UNICEF, and the Government of Zimbabwe. It aims to empower children from underprivileged communities to become environmental stewards. Winners of a district-wide essay competition earned a trip to Matobo National Park—over 500km from Rufaro’s village.

As the lush green mountains of Manicaland gave way to the granite kopjes and dry bush of Matabeleland South, Rufaro realised her country was far bigger and more diverse than she had imagined.

On the first day, surrounded by rangers from the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Authority (ZimParks), she learned about rhino conservation, human-wildlife conflict, and the role of communities in protecting endangered animals. “Before this,” she said with a smile, “I just thought a park was for animals. Now I know it’s for all of us to protect. I want to be a ranger someday.”

Her peers were equally inspired. Oppah Dzvairo from Mutamba High School stood at Cecil John Rhodes’ grave in awe: “This is history in physical form. From here, I understand why Rhodes wanted to be buried at World’s View. It is breathtaking.” Joyce added, “We must keep this flora and fauna intact for future generations. All of this depends on caring for our environment.”

The pupils also visited the Matopo Aquaculture Centre to learn about sustainable fish farming. Takudzwa, an inquisitive student, asked jokingly if he could try it on his mother’s farm in Chipinge. A ranger replied, “That’s why you’re here—to take fish farming beyond Matopos.”

Perhaps the most thrilling moment was tracking rhinos. While they had seen zebras, giraffes, and impalas, nothing compared to standing metres away from a black and white rhino.

In Bulawayo, the children visited historic sites, linking classroom lessons to real-world experiences. Mercy Mutate from Charleswood Primary School said, “I am thankful to TUI and UNICEF. I saw lions, rhinos, and the graves of iconic historical figures, including Leander Starr Jameson and Allan Wilson’s Shangani Patrol, buried at World’s View.”

Jobe Jaibesi, District Schools Inspector for Chimanimani, reflected on the educational value: “This has been a wonderful experience. Pupils have linked what they learn—like chemical weathering and the exhumation theory—to real examples in the field, strengthening their understanding and preparing them for exams. We hope such opportunities continue for other pupils.”

For those working in the park, the programme’s value was equally clear. Thembelani Mpanga, an ecologist at Matobo, said, “Some have even shown interest in working here. From learning about heritage sites to hands-on fish farming and conservation, the impact has been remarkable. Even children from Rose Grave have linked classroom lessons to field experiences.”

Thanks to the TUI Care Foundation and UNICEF, these children returned home not just with stories but with a renewed sense of purpose. They are now the next generation of environmental stewards, ready to spread the message of a Clean Green Zimbabwe in their homes, schools, and communities. Their essays and artwork will be compiled into a storybook—a lasting testament to how one journey can change a child’s perspective forever.

Source: UNICEF

https://www.unicef.org/zimbabwe/stories/textbooks-tracking-rhinos-how-journey-matobo-ignited-spark-

- Centre de coopération pour la MéditerranéeSADCHeart and Soul ZIMWWFMinistry of Information, Publicity & Broadcasting ServicesDCA ZimbabweEU Climate ActionCITESMinistry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development ZimMinistry of Information, Publicity & Broadcasting

13/08/2025

ConserveZim joins the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry to congratulate Mr. Paul Matamisa on his appointment to the six-member committee of the SADC Tourism Steering Alliance.

Mr. Matamisa is a veteran tourism professional and the current Chief Executive Officer of the Tourism Business Council of Zimbabwe.
World Tourism Organization (UNWTO)Zimbabwe Tourism AuthoritySADC Heart and Soul ZIM Ministry of Information, Publicity & Broadcasting Services

11/08/2025

Zimbabwe Farmers Urged to Bale Grass to Prevent Veld Fires

John Cassim

Zimbabwean farmers are being encouraged to bale dry grass and turn it into livestock feed to help prevent veld fires. Professor Obert Jiri, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, made this call during a recent tour of a Mazowe wheat farm. He also witnessed baling with new machinery acquired by his ministry.

"We are saying, be careful to everyone. Don't burn the grass, but bale it," Professor Jiri said.

Zimbabwe's lean season, which runs from June to October, presents two major challenges, the high risk of veld fires and a shortage of food for livestock.

"At this time of year, two critical things are happening," Professor Jiri explained. "First, we are deep in the fire season because all the grass is dry, and the winds are starting to pick up. The second thing is that we have entered the lean season for livestock, a period where there isn't enough food."

Dry grass is highly flammable, and fires are often started by things like discarded cigarette butts. This leads to widespread veld fires across the country. Professor Jiri's ministry has a simple message to combat this, "Don't burn it, bale it."

Last year, over 4,500 veld fire incidents were recorded, destroying nearly one million hectares of land. These fires also resulted in the loss of human lives, livestock, and millions of dollars in property.

According to Mazowe district Agritex officer Mr. Musekiwa Murisa, "The fire season always comes with the dangers of killing natural flora and fauna. Worse still, cases of people dying as a result of fire outbreaks are reported every fire season. We have grass in abundance; the solution is simple. Let's cut the grass and turn it into livestock feed reserves."

The baled grass can then be transported to dry regions, like the 632 wards identified last year as having no grass, to help sustain livestock during the lean season.
ZimparksUICN - Centre de coopération pour la MéditerranéeSADCWWFHeart and Soul ZIMDCA ZimbabweMinistry of Information, Publicity & Broadcasting ServicesEU Climate Action

08/08/2025

Time to join the family ahead of the tourism expo

05/08/2025

Professor Patience Gandiwa Appointed Chair of New Continental Wildlife Body

The Herald has reported that, Zimbabwe has been appointed to chair the newly formed African Group of Negotiators on Wildlife (AGN). Professor Patience Gandiwa, the Director of International Conservation Affairs at the Zimbabwe Parks & Wildlife Management Authority (Zimparks), has been named the group's chairperson.

This appointment follows the 20th Ordinary Session of the African Ministerial Conference on the Environment (AMCEN) held in Nairobi, Kenya. The AGN's formation is a significant step toward ending years of fragmented positions from African nations during global negotiations, particularly on contentious issues like elephant conservation and the ivory trade.

"The episode of discordant voices from Africa on wildlife matters is in our past now," said Professor Gandiwa in an interview in Victoria Falls. "It is our desire, and I think it will be quite historic for the world to hear the Chair of the African Group of Negotiators on Wildlife say, 'Africa and its 54 member states are taking this position.' That sends a strong message of solidarity in line with the African Union Charter."

The AGN was formalized through Decision AMCEN/20/Dec.5, which was adopted by environment ministers at the conference. The group will coordinate Africa’s common positions, advocate for science-based and equitable policies, and protect the continent’s biodiversity and socio-economic interests.

Professor Gandiwa revealed that her appointment was made in her absence during an earlier meeting in Johannesburg.

"I was nominated to chair the AGN in absentia during the Johannesburg meeting in April. I was humbled. It touched my heart to be entrusted with leading such a critical group," she said. "This recognition is a testament to Zimbabwe’s leadership in conservation and the opportunities our nation has given me to grow in this field."

To ensure regional and linguistic inclusivity, the deputy chairperson comes from a Francophone country.

The AGN’s role will be vital as Africa prepares for the 20th Conference of the Parties to CITES (COP20), scheduled for November 2025 in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. Key topics to be discussed include elephant conservation, sustainable wildlife trade, and benefit-sharing with indigenous communities.

The group’s approach aligns with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, integrating wildlife conservation into broader environmental and climate strategies. A draft declaration from the AMCEN decision highlights the role of wildlife in climate resilience through ecosystem services like carbon sequestration and habitat restoration.

Professor Gandiwa noted that past divisions, especially over elephant management, had undermined Africa’s voice. However, she said the 2024 African Elephant Dialogue in Botswana, where 31 range states reached a consensus, proved the power of unity. The AGN will build on this momentum, promoting collaboration and shared solutions to the continent’s conservation challenges.

Zimparks UICN - Centre de coopération pour la Méditerranée WWF SADC Heart and Soul ZIM DCA Zimbabwe Ministry of Information, Publicity & Broadcasting Services Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area - KAZA TFCA

05/08/2025

Bail Denied for Career Criminal Who Struck Kariba Safari Camps

John Cassim

A notorious robber who has been terrorizing residents and tourists in Kariba and Chirundu has been denied bail.

Ephraim Maronga, who is known for targeting safari camps along the Zambezi River, was arrested recently in Chirundu after a brief escape into Zambia. He was apprehended on a number of charges, including a robbery at Vundu Bush Safari Camp, where he allegedly stole property worth over $50,000, including cameras and cash.

Maronga and his accomplices, Clayton Kapesa and Abel Marikopo, are still at large. They are suspected of meticulously planning their crimes and specifically targeting tourist operators whose properties are located deep within the wilderness.

During a bail hearing this past Monday, State Prosecutor Cureen Musiwa argued against Maronga's release.

Musiwa stated that Maronga had 11 prior convictions, all registered at the Kariba Magistrate Court, and was a serious flight risk.

"The thefts have had a chilling effect on local tourism operators," Musiwa told the court, “Many of whom now fear for the safety of their staff and guests."

Musiwa also highlighted Maronga's history of evading the law, including an incident last year when he was arrested by Siavonga police in Zambia but failed to appear in court after being granted bail.

Furthermore, Maronga survived a dramatic shootout with police in Nyamhunga, Kariba, in 2019.

01/08/2025

Unsung Heroes: Navigating Daily Threats in the Wild

John Cassim

Harare, Zimbabwe - Two days before World Rangers Day on July 29 this year, the Zimbabwe Parks & Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) announced that two of its rangers were injured by elephants in the Sengwa, Chirisa Safari Area.

“One suffered a broken arm while fleeing, while the other was gored, sustaining abdominal wounds and fractures to his arm and leg. The incident occurred after the duo was deployed to investigate a reported case of a snared buffalo that was perceived to be a potential danger to the community. On the way, they encountered a herd of elephants with calves, which charged at them, forcing them to flee in different directions. A helicopter is en-route to airlift both rangers to Harare for urgent medical attention,” announced Tinashe Farawo, ZimParks Spokesperson.

Such accidents occur daily across the globe and send chills down the spines of ordinary people, yet rangers’ soldier on despite facing death. What comes to mind first is concern regarding the safety of rangers in general, whether they are insured against such accidents, and what could possibly happen if the world woke up one day without such brave men and women.

In their quest to protect and conserve wildlife, rangers put their lives on the line, hence the recognition of their contribution on World Rangers Day each year on July 31. This year it was celebrated under the theme “Rangers, Powering Transformative Conservation.”

Across Africa, nearly 60,000 rangers dedicate themselves to protecting wildlife and wild spaces. Globally, there are an estimated 280,000 rangers carrying out these diverse and essential tasks, but this number falls far short of what is needed to meet global conservation targets.

To protect 30% of the planet by 2030, approximately 1.5 million rangers will be required. Yet, despite the urgency, ranger numbers are declining, and the work remains highly dangerous.

Between 2006 and 2021, 2,351 rangers died while on duty globally, with nearly half (42.2%) of these fatalities resulting from criminal activity, often linked to wildlife crime and organized poaching operations.

Other challenges that rangers face include time away from their families, long hours of solitude, traumatic confrontations with poachers, and being ostracised by their communities’ following arrests.

Africa is grappling with a significant conservation crisis driven by rapid human population growth and the expansion of urban developments, poaching and other wildlife crimes, climate change, and deforestation.

These pressures are leading to habitat loss and a decline in countless species. Rangers are at the forefront of addressing these challenges, working to secure protected areas so that ecosystems can function effectively for the benefit of both wildlife and people.

The role of a ranger extends well beyond wildlife protection, as they also provide environmental education, act as first responders, engage in law enforcement, manage fires, and conduct community outreach.

In Zimbabwe, a wildlife conservation NGO, Wild Africa, connected with rangers who shared their personal stories from the field and highlighted the courage and sacrifices required for this demanding profession. Wild Africa interviewed Akashinga rangers, one of Africa's first all-female anti-poaching ranger units, based in both Zimbabwe and Mozambique.

Sergeant Margaret Darawanda, Deputy Head of Operations, Akashinga East, said, “The most dangerous thing is to come across an armed poacher. They will try to stop you from disturbing them because they know it’s illegal. We have to understand that everything has a right to live.”

Sergeant Petronella Chigumbura, Deputy Ranger Supervisor, Akashinga East, said, “I will keep on protecting this for my children to see. The world must know: even if you are an orphan, even if you are just a divorced woman, you still have the power to protect the animals.”

“We applaud the unwavering passion and bravery of our rangers, who endure immense challenges to safeguard wildlife for present and future generations. Their dedication is a testament to the power of conservation and a beacon of hope for a sustainable future,” said Moreangels Mbizah, Founder of Wildlife Conservation Action (WCA).
Wildlife Conservation Action Zimparks Akashinga CITES Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife