Source: Bold wildlife translocation to restore biodiversity, ecological balance – herald
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
The Zimbabwe National Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (Zimparks) has embarked on a multi-year wildlife translocation programme aimed at restoring biodiversity and ecological balance in Matusadona National Park.
Zimparks spokesperson Mr Tinashe Farawo said the initiative involves relocating several key herbivore species as part of a broader ecological restoration strategy for the park, which has suffered major environmental degradation over the years.
“We have started moving 10 eland and 50 buffalo from Tsetse Island, which is part of the Lake Kariba Recreational Park, to Matusadona,” he said.
“Additionally, 20 sable antelope will be relocated from the Sibilobilo Safari Area.”
Other species, including more sable, eland and roan antelope, are expected to be translocated from various parts of the country under permits issued by Zimparks.
Mr Farawo said the initiative is being carried out in partnership with the African Parks Network and the Matusadona Conservation Trust.
He said it is underpinned by scientific ecological assessments to ensure the health and sustainability of both the source and recipient populations.
“This is a strategic, science-led conservation intervention aimed at rebuilding viable herbivore populations in Matusadona,” said Mr Farawo.
“The park suffered years of ecological degradation, and this programme is a key step in its recovery.”
The translocation is part of a broader rewilding plan for Matusadona and the wider Sebungwe landscape.
The effort will be supported by a suite of conservation measures, including intensified anti-poaching operations, continuous biodiversity monitoring and community development initiatives.
“We are also improving law enforcement and engaging communities living near the park to ensure they benefit from these conservation efforts,” he said.
Once celebrated for its rich and diverse wildlife, Matusadona National Park has in recent years seen renewed investment in infrastructure, habitat restoration and stakeholder engagement aimed at reversing ecological decline.
Mr Farawo said the long-term vision is to re-establish Matusadona as a key national conservation asset, delivering ecological, economic and social benefits for generations to come.
The wildlife translocation programme will continue over several years, with more species expected to be introduced and additional conservation actions rolled out as part of the park’s ongoing recovery.
The post Bold wildlife translocation to restore biodiversity, ecological balance appeared first on Zimbabwe Situation.