By Shalom Shawurwa
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has called on regional leaders to double down on collaborative environmental efforts and push for inclusive conservation models that center on community empowerment, sustainable development and climate resilience.
Speaking at the 25th anniversary of the SADC Transfrontier Conservation Areas (TFCAs) summit in Harare, President Mnangagwa emphasized on the significance of transboundary conservation in bolstering both biodiversity and regional unity.
“The presence of distinguished Heads of State and delegates here today underscores our shared commitment to regional cooperation, environmental stewardship, and sustainable development.
“Together, we have demonstrated that conservation transcends borders. Empowering rural communities, enhancing tourism infrastructure, and supporting cross-border law enforcement are essential pillars of our collective success,” Mnangagwa said.
President Mnangagwa said since its inception, the SADC TFCA Programme has grown to include 13 fully operational conservation areas and five more in development and they cover approximately 7% of the region’s land and marine territories.
He said the zones are crucial not only for ecological preservation but also for minimizing human-wildlife conflict and promoting tourism and cross-border collaboration.
“The Transfrontier Conservation Areas, we have created are safe habitats for our wildlife to roam away from human settlements. These have, also helped to reduce human-wildlife conflict, while safeguarding our fauna and flora,” he said
He highlighted that Zimbabwe is pioneering environmental policies, including the adoption of the world’s first blockchain-based National Carbon Registry and new carbon market regulations aimed at ensuring transparency and sustainability.
“These bold steps demonstrate that the region and indeed the continent can lead by example in shaping new global standards,” Mnangagwa said, offering Zimbabwe’s experience as a model for other nations.
Climate change, President Mnangagwa warned, is exposing the region’s vulnerabilities with water scarcity and food insecurity threatening both communities and ecosystems.
He called for urgent investment in water infrastructure and sustainable agriculture to mitigate encroachment into protected habitats.
