Harare, (New Ziana) -Zimbabwe has begun the capture and translocation of selected plains game species to the Republic of Equatorial Guinea under a Government-to-Government conservation cooperation arrangement aimed at restoring wildlife populations and strengthening biodiversity conservation in the Central African nation.
In a statement on Wednesday, the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) said the program follows a formal request from the Government of Equatorial Guinea for technical assistance to rebuild selected wildlife populations in its protected areas.
“The Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) wishes to advise the public that it is undertaking the capture and translocation of a limited number of selected plains game species under an approved Government-to-Government conservation cooperation arrangement between the Republic of Zimbabwe and the Republic of Equatorial Guinea,” it said.
The initiative underscores growing reputation of Zimbabwe as one of leading wildlife conservation nations in Africa, with decades of expertise in wildlife management, ecological research and species translocation programs.
According to ZimParks, comprehensive ecological and habitat suitability assessments were conducted before the project was approved, with wildlife experts confirming that the designated release sites in Equatorial Guinea are suitable for the animals and will contribute to long-term conservation, ecotourism growth and sustainable livelihoods for local communities.
The authority stressed that only common plains game species from healthy and sustainable populations in Zimbabwe are being relocated, assuring the public that the exercise poses no threat to the biodiversity or ecological balance of the country.
“The species involved are common plains game found in healthy and sustainable populations in Zimbabwe. Their removal has been guided by scientific assessments to ensure there is no adverse impact on Zimbabwe’s biodiversity, ecological integrity or wildlife populations,” it said, further clarifying that none of the animals being moved are threatened or endangered species.
It added that every stage of the operation, from capture and handling to transportation, is being undertaken by experienced wildlife professionals in compliance with Zimbabwean law, internationally accepted animal welfare standards and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Live Animals Regulations.
The authority said the program reflects the continued commitment of Zimbabwe to supporting fellow African countries in addressing conservation challenges through practical partnerships.
“Zimbabwe remains committed to responsible wildlife management and to working with sister African nations in advancing practical conservation solutions that promote resilient ecosystems and sustainable development,” it said, also assuring stakeholders that the exercise is being conducted transparently and professionally.
“ZimParks reassures all stakeholders that the current operation is lawful, planned and professionally managed, and remains committed to providing accurate information on matters of national conservation interest,” the authority said.
The collaboration is expected to deepen conservation ties between Zimbabwe and Equatorial Guinea while contributing to the restoration of wildlife populations, enhancing biodiversity and supporting sustainable tourism development across the African continent.
New Ziana
