Story by Yolanda Moyo
WHAT was once a perilous daily journey through elephant corridors in search of water has become a story of resilience and renewal in Matetsi, where conservation is delivering tangible benefits to communities living alongside Zimbabwe’s wildlife.
For years, villagers risked deadly encounters with wild animals to access water, often losing livestock to predators along the way. Today, solar-powered and manual boreholes, coupled with a flourishing community garden, are transforming lives while strengthening support for wildlife conservation.
The project, which benefits 36 households, is part of a broader initiative by Government and conservation partners to ensure communities living near protected areas share in the economic benefits of conserving Zimbabwe’s natural heritage.
Villager Mufanga Nyoni said access to clean water has significantly improved safety and livelihoods.
“Before these boreholes were installed, we travelled long distances through areas frequented by elephants and other wild animals. Our animals were being attacked, and we suffered heavy losses. Access to clean water has made life safer, while the garden now provides food and income for many families.”
The once-arid landscape has been transformed into a productive community garden, enabling families to grow food throughout the year while earning an income from surplus produce.
One community member said the project has changed local attitudes towards conservation.
“This garden has changed our lives. We are producing food throughout the year, selling our surplus and supporting our children. We now see wildlife as an asset because these projects are linked to tourism and conservation.”
Another resident said the initiative has created new economic opportunities while encouraging communities to protect the environment.
“When visitors come to our region, they create opportunities for our communities. We are now seeing tangible benefits, which gives us every reason to protect our natural resources.”
The project reflects a growing recognition that conservation succeeds when surrounding communities directly benefit from protecting wildlife and ecosystems.
IFAW Zimbabwe Country Director, Ms Alleta Nyahuye said sustainable conservation depends on improving local livelihoods.
“Through initiatives such as community gardens, livelihood projects and skills development programmes, we are creating economic opportunities that strengthen both household resilience and conservation outcomes.”
Minister of Environment, Wildlife and Climate, Dr Eveline Ndlovu said Government remains committed to ensuring communities living near wildlife areas benefit from the country’s natural resources.
“Community-based projects such as this garden contribute to food security, income generation and stronger relationships between people and protected areas. Our vision is to make conservation an engine for rural development.”
The transformation taking place in Matetsi reflects the aspirations of the Mosi-oa-Tunya Declaration on World Heritage and Sustainable Development in Africa, which advocates for communities to share in the benefits of protecting the continent’s natural and cultural heritage while becoming active custodians of its future.
