By Elvis Dumba
Kariba – The Nyaminyami Rural District Council has partnered with the Zimbabwe National Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) and the Matusadona Conservation Trust to develop an integrated Land Use Plan aimed at promoting sustainable development and mitigating human-wildlife conflict in the Kariba District.
The initiative comes in response to growing concerns over unplanned settlements, environmental degradation, and increased incidents of human-wildlife conflict in this ecologically sensitive area.
Kariba District Environment Officer, Henry Varandeni, explained the purpose of the plan:
“This comprehensive integrated plan is meant to designate land according to its use—such as where people should be settled for agriculture—and preserve land for wildlife, ensuring the environment is protected.”
He added that the strategy will enable the region to safeguard both natural ecosystems and community development.
“This plan will ensure that we protect our environment and wild animals whilst we use the land for maximum development,” he said.
The Land Use Plan was developed through a broad consultative process and received a financial boost of US$130,000 from the Matusadona Conservation Trust and the Deputy Minister of Local Government and Public Works.
The Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Hon. Marian Chombo, praised the initiative:
“This Land Use Plan is a cornerstone in actualizing our development and conservation goals at the local level. Let me pay tribute to the Traditional Leaders and local communities, who are the true custodians of our land. Your wisdom, lived experience, and stewardship are indispensable.”
Deputy Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Engineer Benjamin Kabikira, also underscored the urgency of tackling human-wildlife conflict:
“Human-wildlife conflict presents a pressing challenge that impacts both local communities and wildlife populations.”
Local traditional leadership also welcomed the plan. Chief Musambakaruma (born Muchaneta Chacharika) said the initiative would help protect communities and ensure they benefit from surrounding natural resources.
The Land Use Plan is expected to play a key role in balancing development needs with conservation priorities in the Kariba District.
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