Authorities in Zimbabwe are updating conservation regulations to address growing elephant numbers and conflicts between wildlife and rural residents living near major reserves. Officials announced on Friday during a conference in Harare that revisions to the national wildlife policy and the Parks and Wildlife Amendment Act will shape future conservation approaches under the country's second development strategy.
Tanyaradzwa Mundonga, who leads the Environment, Climate and Wildlife ministry in an acting capacity, told attendees that Gonarezhou National Park serves as a research site where more than 10,000 elephants provide data on movement patterns and ecological effects. He stressed that findings must translate into practical solutions for managing animals that roam beyond protected boundaries and create difficulties for nearby populations. The gathering brought together government representatives, scientists and conservation groups from across southern Africa to examine population control methods and cross-border cooperation.
Zimbabwe maintains over 100,000 elephants, representing one of the continent's largest concentrations. Most inhabit the northwestern and southeastern zones around Hwange and Gonarezhou parks. Professor Edson Gandiwa, who directs the parks authority, said officials will rely on scientific evidence when updating the national elephant management plan for board review.
Tanyaradzwa Mundonga, who leads the Environment, Climate and Wildlife ministry in an acting capacity, told attendees that Gonarezhou National Park serves as a research site where more than 10,000 elephants provide data on movement patterns and ecological effects. He stressed that findings must translate into practical solutions for managing animals that roam beyond protected boundaries and create difficulties for nearby populations. The gathering brought together government representatives, scientists and conservation groups from across southern Africa to examine population control methods and cross-border cooperation.
Zimbabwe maintains over 100,000 elephants, representing one of the continent's largest concentrations. Most inhabit the northwestern and southeastern zones around Hwange and Gonarezhou parks. Professor Edson Gandiwa, who directs the parks authority, said officials will rely on scientific evidence when updating the national elephant management plan for board review.
