Africa-Press – Zimbabwe. GOVERNMENT has been urged to expedite the review of the National Parks Act amid a surge in human-wildlife conflict incidents in recent years.
The Act governs the management and conservation of Zimbabwe’s wildlife resources, but has been criticised for its limitations in addressing the needs of communities living adjacent to national parks.
Stakeholders argue that the Act does not provide for compensation for communities vulnerable to wildlife attacks.
Recent incidents include that of a man who was trampled to death by an elephant in the Batonga area of Kariba along Lake Drive on Saturday evening, while a woman was mauled by a hyena in the Quarry area of Nyaminyami rural in Kariba recently.
The woman is admitted to Sally Mugabe Central Hospital in Harare.
“The current Act is outdated and does not recognise communities’ right to benefit from wildlife conservation. We need a new Act prioritising human-wildlife co-existence and supporting affected communities,” Kalulu Mumpande, a conservation expert, said.
Binga North legislator Chineka Muchimba acknowledged the need for review.
“We are working in Parliament to revise the Act, ensuring it addresses human-wildlife conflict and promotes coexistence,” he said.
Samson Coffe spokesperson for Kariba Urban Residents Association emphasised the importance of compensation.
“When wildlife attacks occur, families suffer losses without support. A revised Act should provide compensation and promote coexistence,” he said.
“We are optimistic the government will expedite the review. A revised Act will benefit both communities and wildlife. The revised Act should prioritise human-wildlife coexistence, provide compensation to victims of wildlife attacks and promote community involvement in wildlife management.
“By addressing these concerns, Zimbabwe can promote sustainable conservation practices and support communities living adjacent to national parks.”
The Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Environment, Climate and Tourism’s report on the Parks and Wildlife Amendment Bill found that human-wildlife conflict is a pressing issue, with communities seeking compensation and support.
The report also emphasises the need for community involvement in wildlife management and decision-making processes.
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