Story by Tamuka Charakupa
THE Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (Zimparks) says it is strengthening mechanisms to combat wildlife crime.
This comes as 53 rangers graduated at a pass-out parade at Chinhoyi Caves in Mashonaland West province this Saturday.
The graduating group comprises 29 female rangers under the Akashinga and Peace Parks Foundation (PPF) initiative and 24 male counterparts from Zimparks.
The new recruits completed a rigorous three-month paramilitary training programme that covered foot and arms drills, advanced weapons handling, bushcraft, and law enforcement, among other disciplines.
“I am so delighted to have undergone this training. It has not only sharpened my skills, but also deepened my understanding of the critical importance of wildlife conservation,” one graduate said.
“This was a tough challenge that required full dedication and courage. I am grateful for the opportunity, especially as a woman making strides in a traditionally male-dominated field,” another noted.
Speaking at the pass-out event, Zimparks Mid-Zambezi Senior Regional Manager, Mr Felix Chimeramombe, said the initiative is the result of a tripartite agreement between ZIMPARKS, the Peace Parks Foundation, and Akashinga.
“These rangers represent a broad national outlook. The recruitment process involved meticulous consultation with local stakeholders and aligns with the Government of Zimbabwe’s devolution agenda which aims to transform communities, districts, and provinces into economic hubs, thereby contributing to the country’s goal of attaining upper-middle-income status by 2030,” he said.
Representing Zimparks Director-General Professor Edson Gandiwa, Director of Operations Mr Arthur Musakwa said the move forms part of a broader effort to fortify conservation efforts across the country.
“Zimbabwe is facing unprecedented threats from organised international poaching syndicates, illegal mining activities in protected areas, and sophisticated criminal networks that endanger our environmental security. These are not ordinary challenges. They require extraordinary individuals of unwavering moral integrity and professional excellence.”
Zimparks disclosed that the paramilitary ranger training initiative is being rolled out nationwide in response to the growing threats of poaching, illegal settlement within protected zones, and violent attacks on endangered species.
