By Admore Mbonda in Kariba
Kariba — In a landmark conservation achievement, the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks), in partnership with the Matusadona Conservation Trust, has successfully translocated 74 large herbivores to Matusadona National Park.
The month-long operation, completed in July 2025, saw the relocation of 50 African buffalo, 10 common eland from Tsetse Island on Lake Kariba, and 14 sable antelope from the Sibilobilo Safari area along the Zambezi River.
“This marks a significant milestone in our ongoing conservation efforts within Matusadona National Park,” said Tinashe Farawo, spokesperson for ZimParks.
He noted that the initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance ecological diversity and address critical conservation challenges in one of Zimbabwe’s most important protected areas.
Thorough feasibility assessments were conducted ahead of the relocation to ensure the long-term sustainability of the species and the health of the park’s ecosystem.
“The translocation will help restore ecological balance in the park and contribute to the wider restoration of the Sebungwe region over the coming years,” Farawo added.
The initiative has received strong backing from the Nyaminyami community, following the recent approval of their land use plan by the Ministry of Local Government on July 29.
The plan has been praised as a model of community-led conservation leadership, reinforcing long-term wildlife protection goals.
Chief Musamba Karuma Muchaneta Muchacharika welcomed the project, stating,
“We are thrilled to see these species return to our land. This initiative not only restores our natural heritage but also strengthens our community’s bond with the wildlife around us. We believe it will boost both biodiversity and tourism, ultimately benefiting our people.”
Chief Mola Champion Rare echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the vital role of local communities in conservation.
“The success of this translocation shows what can be achieved when communities and conservation authorities work together. We look forward to the positive impacts this project will have on our ecosystem and livelihoods.”
Through collaborative efforts like this, Zimparks and local communities are laying the groundwork for a renewed commitment to wildlife conservation—ensuring that future generations can experience the natural beauty and biodiversity of Matusadona National Park.
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