Policy for Wild Life

......, ZIMBABWE POLICY FOR WILD LIFE ,t 22 November 1999 DEPARTMENT OF NATIONAL PARKS AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT MINISTRY OF MINES, ENVffiON.MENT AND TOURISM ZIMBABWE 1 7 7 In this policy document: Alienated land Appropriate Authority Council Custodian Department Director Estate Fund Minister Nation means private land~ or State land held in terms of an agreement of purchase or lease; or trust land held in terms of an agreement of lease means. for alienated land as defined above, the owner, purchaser, lessee or Rural District Councils appointed by the Minister. means Rural District Council means a person or persons or local authorities that have wildlife on their land means the Depa1t ment of National Pm-ks and Wildlife Management means the Director of the Department of ·,ational Parks and Wildlife Management appointed in terms of Section 107 of the Parks and Wildlife Act Chapter 20:14 means the Parks and Wildlife Estate as defined by Section 17 of the Parks and Wildlife Act Chapter 20:14 means Parks and Wildlife Conservation Fund established by Section 30 of the A!fdit and Exchequer Act Chapter 168. means the Minister responsible for administering the Parks and Wildlife Act means the people of Zimbabwe as a whole irrespective of culture, 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 l l l l i Notional Heritage President Wildlife creed, race or gender means national asset means Head of S~te representing the Nation. means all forms of aquatic and terrestrial flora and fauna, which are indigenous to Zimbabwe, ranging fromo micro organisms to large species. I 3 . ;- ~f:, • ! •: . , 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1"(. TABLE OF CONTENTS '.J' PREAMBLE STATEMENT OF INTENT POLICY STATEMENT 1.0.0 RESPONSIBILITY FOR WILDLIFE 2.0.0 PUBLIC USE OF THE PARKS AND WILDLIFE ESTATE I 3.0.0 PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT IN THE PARKS AND WILDLIFE ESTATE 3.1.0 Environmental Impact Assessment 3.2.0 Physical structures in the Parks and Wildlife Estate 3.3.0 Peripheral Development 4.0.0 WILDLIFE OUTSIDE THE PARKS AND WILDLIFE ESTATE 5.0:0 ADMINISTRATION OF WILDLIFE IN ZIMBABWE 6.0.0 FUNCTIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT · 7.0.0 THE PARKS AND WILDLIFE ESTATE 7.1.0 Objectives 8.0.0 MANAGEMENT OF THE PARKS AND WILDLIFE ESTATE 9.0.0 THE PARKS AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION FUND 9.1.0 Objectives of the Fund 9.2.0 Administration of the Fund 10.0.0 WILDLIFE TOURISM 11.0.0 SPORT HUNTING 12.0.0 CAPTURE, MOVEMENT & MAINTENANCE OF wiLDLIFE IN 4 I 1 , I I I I I I , 1 l , ~, ,L-1 1 l , , , , CAPTIVITY 12.1.0 Capture and Movement of Wildlife 12.2.0 Capture and Translocation to or from the Parks and Wildlife Est'lte 12.3.0 Wildlife in Captivity 13.0.0 TRADE IN WILDLIFE AND ITS PRODUCTS 13.1.0 The Domestic Industry 13.2.0 International Trade 13.3.0 Import of Live Animals 13.4.0 Export of Live Animals .,. 13.5.0 Disposal of Products from the Parks and Wildlife Estate 13.6.0 Commodity Associations I 14.0.0 CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT OF AQUATIC RESOURCES 14.1.0 Commercial Fisheries 14.2.0 Sport Fishing 14.3.0 Aquaculture 14.4.0 Aquatic Weed Control 14.5.0 Water Pollution Control 15.0.0 SPECIES CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT POLICIES 15.1.0 Protected Species 15.2.0 Animal-Human Conflict Resolution 15.3.0 Policies for Individual Species or Taxonomic Groups 15.4.0 Cultivation and Sale of Indigenous Plants 16.0.0 RELATIONS WITH NON-GOVERNMENT ORGANISATIONS 5 1 1 1 7 1 'I I POLICY FOR WILDLIFE IN ZIMBABWE PREAMBLE Wildlife is a unique economic resource upon which a massive, growing global industry is developing. The advantage of this industry is its ecological sustainability in comparison to other land uses, and for Zimbabwe, its competitive advantage in world markets. The Government of 11 Zimbabwe regards its own protected areas and wildlife resources as extremely valuable and / highly marketable assets and a legitimate and sustainable form of land use. Not since the establishment of the country's first National Park in 1928, have there be:en so many converging factors which threaten the future viability and integrity of Zimbabwe's National Parks. The challenges are significant but not overwhelming. Recovery will require strong leadership and commitment from within the Government of Zimbabwe, the stakeholders and the international community, and thoughtful input and involvement by non-government organizations (NGOs) both at home and abroad. Zimbabwe is facing a difficult fiscal situation which requires that Government reduce budgets, cut back in many programme areas, reduce levels of staffing and try new approaches to delivering services in more cost effective ways. The Department of National Parks and Wildlife Management was one of the first progranunes to be identified for a new approach to the delivery of services such that, in February 1996, the Government established The Parks and Wildlife Conservation Fund as a commercial entity to manage the Parks and Wildlife Estate. The Estate occupies 13.1 % of the country's land base consisting of National Parks, Safari Areas, Sanctuaries, Recreafonal Parks, Botanical Gardens and Botanical Reserves. 6 1 , 1 1 l 1 1 1 7 1 1 1 An anomaly has existed, however, where only a small section of Zimbabwe society has participated meaningfully in the wildlife industry to the exclusion of the majority of the ~ population. In some instances monopolies have been created which have systematically excluded new entrants. !! In order to redress the situation, the Government intends to put in place mechanism:; which will I ensure broad participation in the wildlife industry through an equitable distribution of resources and access to opportunities for emergent entrepreneurship, without abrogating its fundamental obligation to conserve Zimbabwe's biological heritage. The essential wildlife nature of Zimbabwe's flora and fauna requires special management techniques and societal institutions in order to realise its full potential. Govemmen t policy, and the direction this gives to all sectors of the Nation, is fundamental amongst the many factors which will contribute to the success of Zimbabwe's wildlife industry. This document is Zimbabwe's current policy towards protected areas and wildlife, stating Government's aspirations and intentions on behalf of the Nation. This policy supersedes all other wildlife policies but does not preclude supplementary policy statements to cover issues not addressed. It is intended that policy will be followed by detailed management plans ,md enabling legislation for those iss11es which merit them. 7 ,,. 'f ,;c, . • ' 'I .~ .. .. 'i,.!, I I l 1 1 1 1 l 7 1 1 , I STATEMENT OF INTENT In accordance with its commitment to conservation and its resolve to promote · enhanced sustainable rural prosperity and a more equitable apportionment of the benefits from the proper use of the Nation's wildlife resources, Government intends to: t1 A. Maintain the Parks and Wildlife Estate for the conservation of the nation's wildlife I resources and biological diversity. B. Ensll:fe the adequate protection of major ecosystems or key species and habitats which c. D. E. are not represented in the Estate through various measures including Biosphc:re Reserves. Encourage the conservation of wildlife and habitats outside the Estate, recognising that this is likely to be successful only if wildlife can be used profitably and the primary b enefits accrue to people with wildlife on their land. Insist upon environmental impact assessments for all developments, in accordance with the Zimbabwe Environmental Impact Assessment Policy as enunciated from time to time for all developments. Use the Estate to promote a rurally based wildlife industry. F. Harmonise the management of the Parks and Wildlife Estate with the efforts of neighbouring communities who are developing wildlife as a sustainable fomJ ofland use. G. Transform land use in the remote communal lands of Zimbabwe through its Communal Areas Management Programme for Indigenous Resources (CAMPFIRE), m1der which rural peoples have the authority to manage their wildlife and other natural resources and benefit directly from so doing. 8 JI 1• I 1, 7 7 , 1 H. Ensure that wildlife is not undervalued to the people liv;ig with it, by permitting them to use it sustainably for their own gain as with other resources and agricultural products. I. Promote public awareness of wildlife issues. J. Talce the necessary legal and enforcement measures to prevent the illegal use of wildlife. K. Maintain its commitment to wildlife research. L. M. N. 0. P. Participate in those international treaties and conventions which are consistent with ~ Zimbabwe's policies for conservation and sustainable use of wildlife. I Examine and develop a cost-effective and adaptive institutional framework for managing wildlife and protected areas in terms of this policy. .... Draw up management plans arising from this policy for approval by the Jv[inister. Empower the Department to finance its operations through the retention of revenues accrued from the commercialisation of most of its activities, without compromising the conservation aspects or'its core business. Recognise and consult stalceholders on wildlife related issues. POLICY STATEMENT 1.0.0 RESPONSIBILITY FOR WILDLIFE Wildlife in Zimbabwe is a National heritage, and the State has the overall responsibility for its management and regulation on behalf of the Nation. The success of conservation in Zimbabwe depends on the recognition that Appropriate Authorities should be the best custodians of the natural resources occurring on their land, provided they have the right to use wildlife and to benefit.from it in a sustainable manner. 9 7 7 '7 Policy for wildlife in Zimbabwe seeks to reinforce this pmi.ciple and to ensure that it is universally applied to all categories of Appropriate Authorities. 1.1.0 Government will, when necessary from time to time through Acts of Parliament, make provision for the administration and management of all wildlifo and provide for the establishment of areas of land and water for the pre~ e:rvation and management of wildlife and national landscapes. These areas will be known as rf the Parks and Wildlife Estate and will include certain properties bequeathed to I the Nation for these purposes. 1.2.0 The Minister has established an advisory body, the Parks and Wildlife Board, comprised of individuals with competence in diverse fielqs, drawn from and representing the public of Zimbabwe. This Board will advise the Minister on policy management and development issues related to wildlife throughout Zimbabwe. 1.3.0 The overall administrative responsibility for all wildlife will be vested in the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Management under the Director. 1.4.0 The Minister may allow and encourage the devolution of the managemmt and use of wildlife to Appropriate Authorities. 2.0.0 PUBLIC USE OF THE PARKS AND WILDLIFE ESTATE The Parks and Wildlife Estate is the cornerstone of the tourist industry in Zimbabwe and should be used for tourism in terms of a national tourism strategy within the scope of this policy. Government places considerable importance on the primary right of Zimbabweans to have access to recreation in the estate and will seek an equitabl•~ balance I • 10 ....... .. I I ...... • ..... I • • ,...., • • • .. ...... " between domestic and international tourism. In the pennittld uses of the Estate listed below, conventional tourism based on game viewing and photographic safaris is differentiated from other recreational and commercial activities. 2.1.0 · Tourism will be encouraged in the Parks and Wildlife Estate where it is not in conflict with the purposes for which a protected area was established. 2.2.0 Recreational hunting will be encouraged in appropriate areas inside and outside /J the Estate and opportunities will be provided to ensure that 91digenous Zimbabweans have access to hunting . 2.3.0 Sport fishing will be encouraged in all .... :waters of the Estate except where it conflicts with zones of high aesthetic priority. 2.4.0 Other forms of aquatic recreation (yatching, boating, water skiing, spear fishing, game viewing by boat) will be permitted in the waters of the Estate under such restrictions as are necessary. 2.5.0 Government will encourage commercial, artisanal and subsistence fisheries on major water bodies in the Estate, where this is consistent with other priorities for individual protected areas . 2.6.0 Commercial, promotional documentary and educational filming will be permitted in the Estate subject to the Director's approval and payment of the relevant fees . 3.0.O PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT IN THE PARKS AND WILDLIFE ESTA TE 1----- The Parks and Wildlife Estate is a prescribed area under the Zimbabwe Environmental Assessment Policy. Government will, therefore, ensure that ~y physical development in the Parks and Wildlife Estate will maintain long term ecological values. 11 1 7 7 7 l I .. ... 3.1.0 Environmental Impact Assessment All development in the Parks and Wildlife Estate, or which may affect it, , buildings and dams will be ubjecuo an environmental impact.ass~s·sment or, where developmentisincwitable, environmental planning will b1c; carriecLout in accordarice with the Zimbabwe Environmental Assessment .Eolicy. ii 3.2.0 Physical structures in the Parks and Wildlife Estate I 3.2.1 No permanent developments by private individuals, associations, or companies shall be allowe~ in the Parks and Wildlife Es1 a.te . .... 3.2.2 The Department will ensure that all buildings harmonise with the environment and are located in accordance with Park Management Plans. 3.3.0 Peripheral Development All developers will be encouraged to develop outside the boundaries of the Estate. Where the Department undertakes development, either for its administration or for use by visitors, this will normally be located on the periphery of the Estate. All development will be within limits set for visitor use and for staff accommodation in the Estate. 4.0.0 WILDLIFE OUTSIDE THE PARKS AND WILDLIFE ESTATE Government will encourage the conservation of wild animals and their habitats outside the Parks and Wildlife Estate and recognises that this requires the active co-operation of rural landholders who, as wildlife producers, should be the primary beneficiaries of all returns. The State recognises that by giving wildlife an economic value and treating it 12 , 1 7 7 7 1 .. .. • like any other renewable resource, albeit one that req~ires special management and marketing skills, productivity may be enhanced without detriment to the environment and the benefits may be sufficient to offset the opportunity costs of this fom1 of land use. · , 4.1.0- Government's policy for wildlife is an integral component of its overall land use policy. 4.2.0 Recognising that much of Zimbabwe does not consist of good arable land, ,J Government regards wildlife management in all its diverse forms as a legitimate ( land use option which may be the most appropriate or highest-valued form of development in many areas. .... 4.3.0 Government views wildlife as an appropriate land use option whic:h can co-exist with other land uses in appropriate areas for the economic development of Zimbabwe. 4.4.0 Government encourages wildlife utilisation, provided it falls within the relevant laws of the country. 4.5.0 Government wishes to ensure that the demonstrated benefit of wildlife custodianship is conferred and extended to occupiers of alienated land, in communal and resettlement lands. Such custodianship involves the right to benefit fully from, and to determine the distribution of, wildlife income by producers. Wildlife on private and communal land and resettlement areas shall be managed and utilised on the basis of periociic wildlife management plans negotiated with the Department and approved by the Minister. For this approval the Minister will require: 4.5.1 an acceptable management plan from custodians in which objectives for 13 I I I I l I I I ~, ,....., I I ,.... I wildlife are stated and preliminary in~ntions for achieving these objectives are outlined; 4.5.2 for Councils, an acceptable institutional plan which outlines clearly the methods by which the Councils intend to i) involve wildlife c:ustodians in district level management and ii) devolve the decision-making process in local wildlife management and the distribution of wildlife:: benefits to '• custodians; I 4.5.3 the Department to assist councils in managing the wildlife in their areas . of jurisdiction and to co-ordinate the activities of NGOs who are assisting .,.. I councils; 4.5 .4 the approval by the Department of all annual quotas of wildlife killed or sold in private and communal lands and resettlement areas; 4.5.5 the presentation of annual reports from custodians of wildlife to the Director. 4.6.0 The Minister may withdraw Appropriate Authority from anybody so appointed for not conforming to conditions under which the Appropriate Authority was granted; 4.7.0 The Department will enhance wildlife management and production on all categories of land in Zimbabwe through: 4.7.1 research and extension in wildlife management; 4.7.2 restocking operations 4.7.3 assistance with international marketing of wildlife-based tourism and wildlife products, including the safeguarding of national interests under 14 i I 1 l 1 1 1 1 l 1 1 1 1 ..., I international wildlife treaties. 5.0.0 ADMINISTRATION OF WILDLIFE IN ZIMBABWE , In the context of policy, the Government considers all fonns of aquatic and terrestrial flora and fauna as wildlife, ranging from micro-organisms to large mammals. The Government accepts its responsibility to conserve all wildlife, ! including those species which may conflict with human interests from time to I time. Many of the small animal species and less common plants are seldom seen and can only be conserved by placing emphasis on complete ecosystems. Certain rare or ~ndangered species may req!lireJegal protection.wie~ pccur, whilst those species which have detrimental effects on legitimate human interests or ecosystems may require to be controlled under particular circumstances. 6.0.0 FUNCTIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT The Department of National Parks and Wildlife Management is both a scientific and wildlife management authority of Government, responsible for preserving i ndigenous species and habitats, and protecting and managing the Parks and Wildlife Estate. It is also responsible for administering, developing and promoting wildlife management throughout Zimbabwe as an economic, sustainable land use for enhancing rural productivity. The Department operates as the Parks and Wildlife Conservation F und which enables it to play a strategic role as custodian of National heritage, an.d be a key 15 7 7 7 ,..., contributor to tourism development, employment,creation and fomign currency ~ earnings. The future ability of Zimbabwe to compete in the touns,t market will depend upon the Fund's success in providing high quality services and protecting ' , and managing the natural resources, upon which the tourism industry ·is largely based. 11 The Department is also a para-military agency which carries and has law I enforcement powers. Because it enjoys special indemnities in the ex,~cution of its functions, it is required to exercise a high degree of discipline in :accordance with the Parks and Wildlife code of conduct It will co-operate wi ili other law enforcement agencies of Government and will in turn be enti tied to their collaboration in carrying out its legal functions. Government will ensure that officers appointed to the Department have adequate training and professior.al qualifications, or undergo such training if recruited without the special skills required. The functions of the Department on State land are to: 6.1.0 Protect wildlife against illegal use; 6.2.0 Manage and conserve the Parks and Wildlife Estate efficiently and cost effectively according to area plans for each protected area; 6.3.0 Undertake or commission all physical development in the Estate; 6.4.0 Run its own, or lease, tourist facilities and trading complexes, where 16 appropriate, within its areas of jurisdiction; :➔ 6.5.0 Administer leases, concessions and access for wildlife-based tourism and fisheries in the Estate, as may be granted by the Minister, in a manner that°' will allow equitable access and competitive tourism and ·economic development; 6.6.0 Undertake or com.misston environmental impact assessments in ~ accordance with the Zimbabwe Environmental Impact Assessment Policy I for all proposed development which may affect the Estate; · 6.7.0 Allocate areas and quotas for sport hunting in the Estate and areas where hunting is legally restricted; 6.8.0 Conserve, manage and develop aquatic resources in Zimbabwe including fisheries and aquaculture; 6.9.0 Ensure control of aquatic weed within and outside the Estate ; Outside the Parks and Wildlife Estate the primary aim of the Department will be to facilitate development of a diverse, resilient wildlife industry without prejudice to wildlife conservation. It will accordingly make all efforts to streamline administrative procedures toward this goal in order to: 6.10.0 Ensure the equitable and efficient allocation of opportunities for Zimbabwe citizens to participate in the wildlife industry; 6.11.0 Issue all permits required by law for wildlife-related activities and regulate access, trade, utilisation, fisheries and research; 6.12.0 Regulate trade in wildlife products; 17 ,f j~"~ . •.q I I I 1oo . ( :~-~~·-·-~~::;·}\~;."~: .. ~-. J: <·.t:.~': J • # .r-"' « I" • ('J',' ) i.~~,... ~ -.··4 .... -~ ~-: ~ ... 6.13.0 Regulate and/or market certain key wildlife produ~s; · ' ',, - . it 6.14.0 Maintain a statistical database on all wildlife-related activities ; 6.15 .0 Undertake research in wildlife and coordinate the ~search activiti<>,s of externaf' .. wildlife researchers; . . . .. ~·-1:r· "t:';, 6.16.0 Carry out extension and public relations work outside the Estate in collaboration with other Government and no~-government agencies; ~ 6.17 .0 Set standards and issue appropriate pennits and licences to the wildlife industry; I 6.18.0 Encourage the establishment ofrepresentative associations to devel~p the wildlife industry in a manner which does not foster monopolies and wliich is consistent with paragraph 6.10.0. l 7.0.0 THEPARKSANDWILDLIFEESTATE To date 13.1 % of Zimbabwe has been designated as protected State land und1:r wildlife, w~ch area may not be reduced except by the President This Parks and Wildlife Estate, which is not subject to land speculation, comprises a number of types of protected area differentiated by the degree and nature of utilisation permitted in each. Categories of protected areas are National Parks, Safari Areas, Sanctuaries, Recreational Parks, Botanic Reserves and Botanic Gardens. 7.1.0 Objectives The objectives for the Parks and Wildlife Estate will be to: 7 .1.1 preserve representative examples of Zimbabwe's aquatic and terrestrial flora and fauna and their physical environments; 7 .1.2 protect areas of scenic beauty and special interest; 7 .1.3 preserve rare, endangered and endemic species; 18 ... 7 .1.4 conserve water catchments; 7.1.5 provide opportunities for public education and the advancement of scientific knowledge; and without prejudice to any of the above 7.1.6- encourage public use related to the enjoyment and appreciation of th~,e·areas; and 7.1.7 generate economic activity within the Estate and surrounding areas to enhance rural development. 8.0.0 MANAGEMENT OF THE PARKS AND WILDLIFE ESTATE Wildlife management is a complex subject in which many of the underlying ecological processes are poorly understood. For this reason the Department will adopt an adaptive management strategy in which research and monitoring are incorporated as integral components of management Each act of management is designed as a trial, the outcome o(which can be assessed scientifically and improved where necessary. The Parks and Wildlife Estate will be managed in terms of specific approved area plans which state the objectives for each area, the system of management, permitted forms and levels of public use, authorised development and internal zonation. Area plans will be subject to periodic revision. In order to maintain biological diversity, management plans will set permissible limits to change and will incorporate monitoring systems to evaluate management activities. Prevention of soil erosion and habitat destruction are management priorities. Where 19 , I I I I I I I I • these are caused by an over-abundance of certain animal species or improper burning regimes, populations will be reduced and wildfire controlled according to criteria laid down in area management plans. as a means of controlling animal populations and, where it can be sustained without .. ' --- -- -- , 4 etriment to the welfare of wild populations, as one way in which the Estate can - ---- -\ - - --- " : --- - / contrib ute actively to species conservatio~ and :conol!pc deYelopment. ,: ' .,. Where sport hunting is an objective in a protected area, quotas will be set to the maximum sustainable at which trophy quality can be maintained and the hunting can be marketed. 9.0.0 TaE PARKS AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION FUND Since February 1996, the Department started operating as The Parks and Wildlife Conservation .Fund, which was established under Section 30 of the Audit and Exchequer Act Chapter 168, to manage the Parks and Wildlife Estate. 9.1.0 Objectives of the Fund The objectives of the Fund shall be: a) the conservation and management of the Parks and Wildlife Estate: as defined by the Parks and Wildlife Act (Act 20:14) b) to invest and deal with money of the Fund not immediately required upon such security and any such manner as determined by the Treasury: and c) to ensure the efficient mobilization of the Fund to apply the money and other 20 ,.. assets of the Fund for any purpose which is cQnsidered by the Director of ,"t National parks to be in the interest of conservation and managernent of Parks Estate. 9.1.1 the conservation and management of the Parks and Wildlife" Estate as defined by the Parks and Wildlife Act (Act 20:) of 1975 9 .1.2 to invest and deal with money of the Fund not immediately required upon ' such security and in such manner as determined by the Trerumry; I to ensure the efficient mobilization 9 .1.3 to ensure the efficient mobilization of the Fund to apply the money and other assets of the Fund for any purpose which is consic e:red by the Director of National Parks to be in the interest of conservation management of the Estate. 9.i.o Administration of the Fund a) The fund shall be administered by the Director of National Parks mid Wildlife Management on behalf of the Secretary for the Ministry. The Secre1 ary shall be responsible for the determination of the administrative policy of the Fund and shall in accordance with Treasury Instructions isslle detailed Accounting Officers' Instructions. b) For the effective management of tourism facilities in the Parks and Wildlife Estate, the Director of National Parks and Wildlife Management may enter into management and sub-contracting agreements with natural o:r juridical persons on such terms as the Secretary for the Ministry with the concurrence 21 I I I I I I :) of the Treasury, may determine, in keeping with procedures set by the oversight body. 10.0.0 WILDLIFE TOURISM Tourism and outdoor recreation provide a powerful opportunity for marketing wildlife and protected areas. They are a massive and rapidly growing industry which, at the global level, is estimated to be second only to the oil industry in size. Unfortunately, I while tourism can have many benefits for the host destinations, it can be· transient and result in socio-economic and environmental damage if not well planned :md executed. Since tourism in Zimbabwe depends largely on the Nation's parks and wildlife resources, the Department will play a key role in developing a sound international ana-domestic tourist industry. It will: 10. 1.0 Detennine the levels of tourism based on wildlife which is dependent on the Parks and Wildlife Estate; 10.2.0 Advise the national tourist authority on the minimum standards to be required by all tourist services based on wildlife; 10.3.0 Provide a range of outdoor recreational opportunities within the Estate, compatible with the permissible uses and the management objectives of each area; 10.4.0 Subject to the provisions of Section 9.0.0, build all future fixed tourism developments within the Estate, but may enter into joint ventures with the private sector in financing and managing such developments, provided that the 22 · . . \ ., Department will: 10.4.1 supply and manage a range of tourist accommodation to suit a \\ide range of tastes and pockets, including those aimed at the lower income domestic market; 10.4.2 own all permanent tourist developments within the Estate ( other than those already owned by the private sector in certain Recreation al Parks) ' and -ensure that these developments create minimum ecological and I aesthetic impacts on their environs; ' 10.4.3 receive on behalf of GovernmeE-t an equitable share of the revenue generated by all tourism activities within the Estate; 10.4.4 ensure that wildlife-based tourism in the Estate is priced w as not undervalue the resource or to be subsidized, except in the case of facilities used by Zimbabwe residents, especially of low income, or where the tourism opportunities have a strong educational component for local people; l 0.4.5 seek partnerships with the local people of the region, in order to promote rural based tourism and tourist services which will: i) enhance the returns from sustainable land use; ii) increase local economic activity among rural people; and seek an equitable balance between local, regional and national economic interests within a locally based planning process for each protected area or group of protected areas; 10.4.6 ensure that opportunities to offer commercial tourist services within the 23 Estate are allocated on an equitable basis b} limiting periods of tenure where appropriate; 10.4.7 regulate the flow and conduct of visitors to protected areas so as to prevent lasting ecological deterioration and increase the quality of the experience enjoyed by visitors; 10.4.8 market all tourist opportunities within the Estate so as to rationalise If supply and demand and ensure that Zimbabwean resid1.mts have a reasonable opportunity to enjoy the Estate; and 10.4.9 provide interpretive and educational material relating to recreational opportunities within the Estate. 10.5.0 The Department will co-operate closely with the national tourii;t authority · in the development and implementation of a national tourism strategy. This may extend to the promotion and coordination of wildlife-based tourism in the SADC region. 11.0.0 SPORT HUNTING In the context of this policy "sport hunting" means hunting of wildlife with a firearm or bow. Sport hunting largely involves the off take of mature male animals and quotas are kept low to maintain a high trophy quality. There is no link between sport hunting and culling of over-abundant wildlife populations. Such population reductions usually involve large numbers of female animals, often in National Parks, and Government does not view this type of offtake as an opportunity to increase hunting quotas. 24 ..... Recreational hunting is an economically and ecologically efficient m,e of wildlife l~ consistent with the tourism policy. Recognising the substantial foreign exchange earnings which hunting generates, Government will administer the industry for the maximwn long term benefit to the Nation rather than for short tenn profits to individuals. 11. 1.0 Sport hunting will only be pennitted in designated hunting areas .. 11.2.0 Protected species may not be hunted anywhere except in terms of a permit issued ff according to the laws of Zimbabwe. l 11.3.0 Toe Minister may impose a hunting restriction on any land or any wildlife species in Zimbabwe in the interests of conservation . .... 11.4.0 The Department will encourage citizens sport hunting in all appropriate land categories as in 11.1.0. 11.5.0 No animal will be hunted in the designated hunting areas for less than its market value. 11.6.0 Appropriate Authorities will be responsible for the management of sport hunting on their land subject to approval of the hunting quota by the Department. 11. 7 .0 Toe Department will seek to improve the sport hunting industry and increase the participation of new entrepreneurs through: 11. 7 .1 an initial system of allocating hunting areas in the Esta1 e which is intended to redress the existing imbalance without compromising the existing high standards of professional operations or prejudicing the maximum long term return to the national economy; 11.7.2 an effective training programme for new entrepreneurs entering the sport hunting industry; 25 ,....... • .. Ill • ,....... • 11. 7.3 setting hunting quotas on a scientific basis and monitoring wildlife populations which are hunted; 11. 7.4 enforcement of regulations designed to maintain high standards in the · sport hunting industry; and 11.7.5 overseeing examinations for professional hunters to ensure their competence in protecting and providing the necessary services to hunting ~ clients. I 11. 7 .6 differentiating clearly between quotas set for sport hunting and wildlife population reductions for ecological reasons. 'I' 12.0.0 CAPTURE, MOVEMENT, & MAINTENANCE OF WILDLIFE IN C.APTMTY Government considers translocation and establishment of new wildlife populations in Zimbabwe as a desirable objective which enhances conservation and contributes economically to the country. 12.1.0 Capture and movement of wildlife 12.1.1 Game capture and translocation will be carried out according to the highest professional standards and will be restricted to individuals licensed by the Department. 12.1.2 All capture and translocation operations outside the Parks and Wildlife Estate will require the recommendation of the Appropriate Authority for the land and the Conservation Committee of the relevant Rural District Council, and will require the approval of the Department of Veterinary Services and the Director of the Department of National Parks and 26 Wildlife Management. 12.1.3 In co-operation with the Department of Veterinary Services quarantine stations for wildlife will be established in selected areas wh(:re animals may be held prior to translocation to final destinations. Veterinary controls on movement of wildlife will be designed to cause the minimum prejudice to the wildlife industry. 12.1.4 No exotic wildlife will be introduced into the wild in Zimbabwe without an environmental impact assessment. 12.1.5 Certain indigenous wildlife species with a restricted range in Zimbabwe may not be introduced into areas where they do not occur at present, or are not known to have occurred in the past, if there is a risk of them escaping into the Parks and Wildlife Estate. The Department will further seek to maintain existing gene pools of species within Zimbabwe which show divergent characteristics by avoiding translocation between populations. 12.2.0 Capture and translocation to or from the Parks and Wildlife Estate Government views the capture and translocation of animals from the Estate as one way in which protected areas can contribute to conservation and economic development in rural areas. 12.2.1 Where a wildlife population is to be reduced to an ecological and scientific analysis. Translocation of animals will be preferred to culling, subject to an economic and scientific analysis being done to verify the viability of the exercise 27 ..,..... ' 12.2.2 Sustainable offtalces of wildlife may be usecVto initiate new populations or increase existing populations. 12.2.3 Translocation of wildlife into the Estate will be carried out where: i) an existing population is significantly below carrying capacity and research has indicated that the translocation will ruisist in the recovery of the population; ii) a locally extinct species is to be re-established; or I iii) a new "wildlife park" is being established according to an approved area plan. 12.3.0 Wildlife in captivity Government regards all wildlife, whether captive bred, ranched, farmed or genetically manipulated which is both indigenous and non indigenous to Zimbabwe as wild. Government will discourage captive breeding except in projects which: 12.3.1 seek to increase wild populations of species which are in low m unbers in Zimbabwe. The Department may supply founder animals for such projects from the Parks and Wildlife Estate where the conservation or economic aspects of the exercise are sound. 12.3.2 seek to meet the demand for restocking of wildlife in areas of Zimbabwe where numbers are depleted. 12.3.3 produce large numbers of· commercially valuable species such as crocodiles and ostriches, provided such operations maintain or enhance wild populations. 28 . l l l L L :1 In cases where Government has pennitted capti~e breeding: 12.3.4 it will discourage the establishment of zoos except where it is satisfied with detailed plans for the long tenn maintenance of humanely acceptable ventures with research and educational value. 12.3.5 all facilities for holding wildlife in captivity, including quarantine facilities, will meet high standards of animal husbandry and will be subject to veterinary inspection. The Department will recommend the I closure of an establishment which does not meet such standards or which is not consistent with the code of wildlife ~anagement and conservation which Zin1babwe seeks to uphold. 12.3.6 for the purpose of internal and external trade in wildlife, animals bred in captivity w:i»-be subject to the same legal controls as those from the wild .. 13.0.0 . TRADE IN WILDLIFE AND ITS PRODUCTS In accordance with its policy of giving wildlife the highest possible value to ac bi eve the aims of conservation, Government will encourage the legal trade in wildlifo and its products while taking all appropriate measures to prevent illegal practices. 13.1.0 The Domestic Industry Zimbabwe views the establishment of domestic contrpl on illegal hunting and trafficking in wildlife products as the primary requirement to solve the perceived international problems in most aspects of wildlife trade. 13 .1.1 Every transaction involving a live animal or primary wildlife product other than meat will be subject to permit. 13 .1.2 Every elephant tusk and rhino horn in private possession will be registered 29 1 ! ! ! ! ! L t I I I I ,-, r with a certificate of ownership. 13.1.3 All dealers, traders and manufacturers of wildlife products will be registered, will keep records of their transactions in a form prescribed by the Department, and will submit such returns to the Department as the Director may require. 13.2.0 International Trade I Zimbabwe is a signatory to the Convention for International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) and any other convention related lo trade in wildlife species. All international trade will be conducted in accordance with the provisions of CITES. Zimbabwe will continue to uphold the principles of CITES enshrined in the preamble to the Convention, and will support those resolutions 1hat do not infringe its sovereign right to manage wildlife to the benefit of the re:mw-ce and the people sharing the land with the resource. 13.3.0 Import of live animals In order to guard against accidental release of exotic species, the possible loss of genetic diversity of indigenous species, and the introduction of exotic wildlife disease and parasites, importation of wildlife will be discouraged except where: 13.3.1 species are indigenous and are low in numbers in Zimbabwe, provided that the imported animals are taxonomically similar to the local species and will be released in areas where the species presently occurs or has been known to occur ( e.g. white rhinoceros, gemsbok, Liechtenstein's hartebeest); 30 I I l l I I L l L L :j 13.3.2 species are indigenous and are of significant commercial vali 1e, provided that the imported animals are taxonomically similar to the local species and will enter the country in areas where the species present:y occurs or has been known to occur (e.g. crocodiles, ostriches); 13.3.3 species which Government is satisfied will not be released into the wild in Zimbabwe or, if accidentally released, will not survive in the wild ( e.g. caged birds and aquarium fish); I 13.3.4 species which may be desirable for biological control purposes subject to the provisions of paragraph 12.1.4. 13.4.0 Export of live animals Government accepts that export of wildlife is a legitimate economic option and will consider only t~ose exports which fall-into the following categories: 13.4.1 the provision of animals to recognised scientific institutions for research and educational purposes; 13.4.2 animals bred in captivity, subject to any constraints which Government sees fit to impose in the interest of conservation or the economic protection of the local industry. For wildlife such as birds and reptiles, the only exports which Government will nonnally consider are from breeding facilities; 13.4.3 animals taken as a sustainable harvest from the wild, where captive breeding is not an avail~ble option, where there is no requirement to restock new areas, and where Government is satisfied that the export will not be detrimental to the local industry and economy. 31 , t I 13.5.0 Disposal of Products from the Parks and WildlifeJstate ' . . .. , The use and disposal of products or byproducts of management activities in the Parks and Wildlife Estate will be strictly regulated to ensure high standards of ·' public accowiml?ility and transparency ( e.g. tenders and auctions): 13.5.1 high returns will be sought from all anim~ls translocated or harvested in order to cultivate an awareness of wildlife values among the people of Zimbabwe. I 13.5.2 durable products such as ivory, skins, horn and teeth will be sold to best advantage by the Department 13.6.0 Commodity Associations Government encourages the formation or representative bodies, in accordance with paragraph 3 .18.0, for the trade in individual wildlife products with a high commercial value (e.g. crocodiles and ostriches) and expects such associations to work closely with Government in policing and administering their own industries, increasing product value through appropriate marketing, strategies and enhancing Zimbabwe's international conservation image by ensuring that trade is conducted according to the highest standards. 14.0.0 CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT OF AQUATIC RESOURCJES Government regards the conservation of indigenous and non indigenous fish and their habitats in Zimbabwe as an integral part of its programme to conserve biological diversity. To this end, it will control the introduction of exotic fish species to Zimbabwe, avoid over-exploitation of indigenous and non indigenous species , and protect aquatic 32 r habitats for fish. \ I I Government intends to manage the fish resources in Zimbabwe for a sustainable yield of fish production. Government will manage fisheries in Zimbabwe through the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Management, since all fishing activities are restricted to freshwater I bodies, the majority of which are protected areas in the Parks and Wildlife Estate. The I Minister may delegate authority for the regulation of fisheries on certain water bodies to other Appropriate Authorities, as provided for from time to time and Parks and Wildlife Act. 14.1.0 Commercial Fisheries In the past, commercial fisheries included only the large kapenta fishery developed by the Department on Lake Kariba and a few gill-net concessions on this and other major water bodies. Government's policy towards artisanal fisheries will be to require the development of small scale, commercially efficient operations tied to a shoreline base. Expansion of such fisheries will be limited by the available resource base and will be rationalised in the full context of competing economic developments. Government will seek to improve the management of such fisheries wherever approptjate. 14.1.1 K.apenta Fishery Government will: 33 !. t I) ii) "i co-operate with Zambia on the overatl objective of managing the Kariba pelagic fishery for a maximwn sustained yield ofkapenta; allocate permits to fishermen and re-allocate existing permits in ... an equitable manner which avoids monopolies in the i1idustry; iii) monitor the fishery and carry out research related to the fishery at the Lake Fisheries Research Institute; ;md iv) encourage the formation of producer associations to improve marketing and coordination of the industry. 14.1.2 Other commercial fisheries Government will: I i) permit gill-net fishing in the waters of the Parks and Wildlife Estate where it can be catered for under area p-lans and is not in conflict with higher priorities; ii) . encourage small-scale commercial fishing in waters 011tside the Estate and, for those waters under Rural District Councils, encourage such Councils to establish by-laws to manage their respective fisheries; iii) set limits to fishing effort for both large and small-scale commercial fisheries and will evaluate, monitor and regulate all such fisheries through analysis of production statistics; iv) promote stability of fisheries through security of tenwe for all efficiently run operations; and v) take into account historic and traditional fishing rights of local 34 l l L L L L L L L ,.... communities, subject to the i~ustainability of the resource utilisation approaches. 14.2.0 Sport fishing I 14.2.1 Recognising the very large income generated by sport-fishing and the fact that it substantially exceeds the market Vi lue of fish as food, Government will encourage sport-fishing as an important component of the domestic and international tourist industry, enjoyed by all sectors of the community. 14.2.2 The Department will develop the angling potential in Estate waters wherever this is compatible with area plans. It will establish a licensing system for angling in order that funds can be returned to the~ conser¥ation of the resources on which angling depends. This may include the rearing of exotic angling species such as trout and bass where this is not in conflict with an area plan. 14.2.3 The Department will encourage and assist other Appropriate Authorities for water bodies to place recreational fishing on an organfred footing and .., to involve riparian rural communities in deriving benefits from such development. 14.2.4 The Department will encourage anglers to submit returns of their catches and angling costs in order to assess the growth of the industry and to improve management. 35 .. 14.3.0 Aquaculture Aquaculture of fish, molluscs or crustaceans requires ponds specially designed for the purpose, adequate water supplies, sources of fish food and p1 ecautions against pollution where production is intensive. 14.3.1 The Department will encourage aquaculture in those rural areas where the conditions are favourable for such development. 1 14.3.2 The Department will assist the development of aquaculture through research into production systems and fry production. 1 14.3.3 The Government will encourage the consolidation of all pubtic funded aquaculture research activities in order to rationalise the allocation of resources and realise the economic potential for the industry. 14.4.0 Aquatic Weed Control The Government will ensure control of problem infestations of aquatic weed within and outside the Parks and Wildlife Estate using appropriate methods which do not threaten human health or biological diversity. The Government will continue to investigate alternative technologies to solve weed problems in the most cost-effective manner. 14.5.0 Water Pollution Control Government is aware that increasing levels of water based tourism and development and settlement in the vicinity oflarge water-bc:,dies are giving rise to increased water pollution. Government will monitor the quality of water, analyse the source of pollution and act to control pollution through appropriate action to limit the discharge of haimful wastes into water bodies. 36 I I I L L ,.. "' n L,. r . - I . 15.0.0 SPECIES CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT POLICIES Government wishes to see healthy wildlife populations for which there is no requirement for legal protection of any sort. To this end, Government will initiate appropriate conservation projects to increase wildlife and is products. Under this p.rinciple, no species will be excluded from utilisation unless the Minister is convinced that such exploitation will be detrimental to its survival. I 15.1.0 Protected Species Government regards active conservation measures as the primary requirement to enhance the status of those species of animals and plants which are rare or endangered. However, Government will consider legal protection to support normal conservation measures where it is justified. 15.1.1 The Minister will publish a schedule of species which are legally protected. The schedule will include: i) species for which Government will not nonnally issue permits for their exploitation; and ii) species for which it is not Government's intention to prevent exploitation but whose exploitation will be subject to control. 15 .1.2 Species will not normally be considered for legal protection unless they are in such low numbers as to threaten population viability as a direct result of human exploitation, or where there are overriding concerns of cultural importance. 37 L L L L L L 15.0.0 SPECIES CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT POLICIES Government wishes to see healthy wildlife populations for which there is no requirement for legal protection of any sort. To this end, Government will initiate appropriate conservation projects to increase wildlife and is products. Under this p rinciple, no species will be excluded from utilisation unless the Minister is convinced that such 1 exploitation will be detrimental to its survival. 15.1.0 Protected Species I Government regards active conservation measures as the primary requirement to enhance the status of those species of animals and plants which are rare or endangered. However, Government will consider legal protection to support normal conservation measures where it is justified. 15.1 .1 The Minister will publish a schedule of species which a:e legally protected. The schedule will include: i) ii) species for which Government will not normally issue permits for their exploitation; and species for which it is not Government's intention to prevent exploitation but whose exploitation will be subject to control. 15.1.2 Species will not normally be considered for legal protection w1less they are in such low numbers as to threaten population viability as a direct result of human exploitatio~ or where there are overriding concerns of cultural importance. 37 ..... 15.2.0 Animal-Human Conflict Resolution I Government accepts the necessity to protect people, crops and livestock from the depredations of wildlife. At the same time, Government draws the attention of those Appropriate Authorities who are managing wildlife to the inherent conflict which exists between the objective of earning high revenues from wildlife and the reduced wildlife productivity which may result from such animal-human J conflicts. 15.2.1 The Department will regard as a priority, within normal operating constraints, the control of large dangerous species such as lion, elephant and buffalo. 15.2.2 The Department will be responsible for the control of problem birds such as quelea for which it will devise appropriate methods. 15.2.3 The Government will progressively devolve the responsibility for animal human conflict resolution to the Appropriate Authority. 15.2.4 Wherever possible, alternative strategies to reduce the conflict between people and wildlife will be explored. i) The Department will initiate public awareness campaigns to stress ii) ., the financial worth of wildlife; Appropriate Authorities for wildlife in commwial lands will ensure that individual farmers affected by animal-human conflict are the main beneficiaries of revenue earned from wildlife; ' iii) Alternative measures to protect crops, such as electric fencing, will be employed wherever possible; 38 I J J J. I l l L L L L L L L l L L L l l L I ~· iv) Where practical, wildlife with significant commercia,l value will be captured and translocated rather than destroyed. 15.3.0 Policies for Individual Species Or Taxonomic Groups Some species of particular ecological or economic importance merit individual attention in terms of policy. Detailed management plans will be p:repared for these and other species as required. 15.4.0 Cultivation and Sale of Indigenous Plants Government is concerned with the protection of rare and endangered indigenous plants in their natural habitats and with the protection of these habitats. Many species may be threatened by illegal collecting and by trade. 15.4.1 Government will discourage the indiscriminate exploitation of all indigenous plants a..11d, in particular, will protect rare and endangered species which are threatened by collecting and trade. 15.4.2 The Government will only allow trade in protected indigenous plants which have been propagated from stocks initially obtained under permit from the wild. 15.4.3 The Government will issue permits to persons wishing to cultivate protected indigenous plants and obtain the initial stock from the wild only for those species which can sustain an off take. 15.4.4 The Government will issue permits to sell protected indigenous plants only to registered dealers. The transactions and stock of registered dealers in wild plants will be monitored by the Department. 39 if 16.0.0 RELATIONS WITH NON-GOVERNMENT ORGANISATIONS Government will liaise with non-government organisations (NGOs) in accordance with Government Policy under the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare. 40