BY WANDILE TSHUMA

Two Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (Zimparks) rangers were injured by elephants in the Sengwa, Chirisa Safari area yesterday, while investigating a reported case of a snared buffalo.

According to a Zimparks press statement released yesterday by their spokesperson, Tinashe Farawo, the incident occurred when the duo encountered a herd of elephants with calves, which charged at them.

A helicopter was reportedly dispatched  to airlift both rangers to Harare for urgent medical attention as of yesterday afternoon.

During the chaotic scene, one ranger suffered a broken arm while fleeing, while the other was gored, sustaining severe abdominal wounds and fractures to his arm and leg.

Farawo concluded by saying that the authority’s thoughts are with the injured rangers and their families during this challenging time.

BY STAFF REPORTER

A groundbreaking report launched at the 15th Meeting of the Conference of the Contracting Parties to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands (COP15) in Victoria Falls emphasizes the vital role wildlife species play in sustaining Africa’s wetlands.

The report, “Africa Special Report: Taking Animals into Account,” urges governments to incorporate animal-driven ecological processes into their wetland restoration and management strategies.

Magnus Sylvén, GRA director of Science-Policy-Practice, describes the report as an “invaluable resource” for those implementing the Ramsar Convention. “By recognising the fundamental ecological role of wild animals, we will become better at managing and restoring the world’s inland and coastal wetlands,” he said.

The report highlights the alarming decline of wetlands and freshwater species, with an estimated 3.4 million square kilometers of inland wetlands lost globally since 1700.

Nearly one-third of freshwater fish species face extinction. James Isiche, IFAW regional director for Africa, stressed the link between wetland preservation and broader climate and biodiversity goals.

“Protecting and restoring these dynamic ecosystems is essential to building climate resilience, conserving biodiversity, and ensuring a future where animals and people thrive together.”

The report showcases 11 case studies from across Africa, demonstrating the importance of healthy wild animal populations for ecosystem services. The researchers identified five key messages, including the need to establish effective no-take fishing zones, ensure the “flow” of water and wildlife in large-scale landscapes, and combat unsustainable use of key wetland species.

The Africa Regional Group reached a consensus in support of a draft resolution on achieving equitable governance and effective conservation of wetlands. They emphasized the need to balance conservation efforts with socio-economic development and to uphold the rights of Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities.

BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI 

The City of Victoria Falls has been recognized globally for its outstanding efforts in conserving and managing its wetlands. Recently, the city was among 31 world cities to receive the Ramsar Wetland City Accreditation at the ongoing Ramsar COP15.

According to Ntombizami Ncube, Acting Spatial Planning Director, “Efforts that we put as a city, together with our stakeholders and communities, in conserving our property, especially the Victoria Falls, have been significant.” She highlighted the city’s collaborative work with the Forestry Commission, schools, and stakeholders to manage and conserve the property, which benefits the entire city.

The city’s conservation initiatives include participating in joint site management committee meetings with the Zambians to monitor developments and conservation status. They have also developed a tourism strategy and a joint integrated management plan. Additionally, the city has implemented various initiatives, such as collaborative waste management, regular clean-up campaigns, and development control.

Ncube emphasized the importance of preserving the wilderness value of Victoria Falls, stating, “Our community depends on Victoria Falls for livelihood, so preserving it is crucial.” The city ensures that buildings near the forest don’t exceed tree height or 11 meters and plants three indigenous trees for every tree cut.

The Ramsar Wetland City Accreditation recognizes the city’s efforts in conserving and preserving its wetlands. Ncube expressed the city’s commitment to continuing its conservation work, stating, “We’ll continue working together to conserve and preserve our wetlands, ensuring wise use and remaining an accredited World Heritage city.”

The city is thrilled to receive this international recognition and looks forward to renewing its accreditation, valuing its importance and benefits to the city, stakeholders, and community.