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[QUOTE="Munyaradzi Mafaro, post: 66882, member: 636"]
Zimbabwe has launched the Biodiversity Finance Initiative (BIOFIN), a program designed to enhance conservation funding, promote the sustainable use of natural resources, and foster inclusive economic growth. Environment Minister Dr. Evelyn Ndlovu announced the initiative at its official launch in Harare, calling it a strategic milestone in the country’s development.

Ndlovu said BIOFIN will help close the gap in conservation financing by assessing current spending, identifying needs, and creating targeted funding solutions. She emphasized that managing Zimbabwe’s wildlife, particularly its overpopulated elephant herds, places a heavy financial burden on the state. Revenue from responsibly managed wildlife stockpiles, she added, is not about profit but about sustaining conservation and supporting local communities.

The initiative aligns with Zimbabwe’s National Development Strategy 2 (2026–2030), Vision 2030, and global agreements, such as the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. UNDP Deputy Country Representative Challa Getachew praised Zimbabwe for joining more than 90 nations using the BIOFIN model and highlighted the need to channel funds to rural communities, women, and youth. Finance Ministry Chief Economist Tinashe Mashavave said BIOFIN will help integrate biodiversity into national budgeting and develop tools such as green bonds and payments for ecosystem services.
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