By Tendai Keith Guvamombe
(Harare, Zimbabwe—08 June 2025)—The International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) and the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) proudly mark five years of a groundbreaking, value-driven conservation partnership that has had a lasting impact on people, habitats, and wildlife.
Since its inception in 2019, this collaboration has strengthened wildlife protection, enhanced habitat management and tourism development and empowered local communities. The partnership has notably contributed to transforming the iconic Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe’s oldest and largest protected area.
To date, the two organizations have invested over US$10 million, which has been directed towards strengthening law enforcement, enhancing the well-being of rangers, embracing cutting-edge conservation technology, tourism development and promoting coexistence.
IFAW and ZimParks leadership reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring that Zimbabwe’s natural heritage remains protected and thrives harmoniously with people for generations.
In his remarks, IFAW President and CEO Mr Azzedine Downes expressed gratitude for the unwavering support of the people and government of Zimbabwe.
“This is a perfect opportunity to reflect on the remarkable journey we’ve taken with the people and government of Zimbabwe. From the beginning, we understood that by working hand in hand with our well-meaning partners, including the esteemed communities, we could amplify our impact and ensure that people and wildlife can thrive together.”
“As we embark on the next phase of our journey, we reaffirm our commitment to collaborate with the Zimbabwean government to enhance the sustainable management of wildlife, support alternative livelihoods for communities coexisting with wildlife, and foster resilient ecosystems,” he added.
Some key milestones include upgrading the Makona Ranger Station, providing ranger equipment and mobility, supporting the upgrading of tourist camps and lodges, and constructing the Hwange National Park one-stop access pavilion to enhance visitor experiences and boost tourism.
In the communities adjacent to the giant park, we have installed predator-proof bomas to promote coexistence and work with schools surrounding the park to promote environmental stewardship.
“Together with IFAW, we have become a force to be reckoned with and have successfully tackled even the most complex conservation challenges facing the Hwange-Matetsi-Zambezi landscape. The milestones we achieved underscore the power of collaboration and a shared vision,” says Prof. Edson Gandiwa, ZimParks Director General.
