Over 3,800 Shortlisted for 2025 Resident and Bonafide Hunting Season
The Ministry of Tourism has announced that 3,811 applicants have been shortlisted for the 2025 Citizens and Established Resident Hunting Season, following the conclusion of a screening exercise by the Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW).
According to the Ministry, the shortlist follows a public advert which ran between 18 and 31 August 2025. Out of 4,093 applications received, 3,811 were successfully evaluated and approved.
The Ministry commended all applicants for their interest and reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the sustainable utilisation of Zambia’s wildlife.
In a statement issued by Nelly Banda, Principal Public Relations Officer at the Ministry of Tourism, the Ministry revealed new measures aimed at regulating the sale of legal game meat as part of wider efforts to curb poaching, promote food security, and create jobs while supporting sustainable tourism.
The measures include the licensing of certified hunters and registered outlets in line with the Zambia Wildlife Act of 2015, the establishment of designated processing and distribution centres, and the enforcement of strict veterinary and public health inspections.
Additionally, revenue generated from regulated game meat sales will be channelled back to rural communities through Community Resource Boards (CRBs), ensuring that conservation brings direct benefits to local people. Public awareness campaigns and tougher penalties against illegal game meat trading are also planned.
“These steps are intended to ensure that the harvesting of wildlife resources is done in a sustainable, transparent, and beneficial manner, balancing conservation goals with the socio-economic needs of the people,” the Ministry stated.
The announcement highlights government efforts to safeguard the country’s wildlife heritage while encouraging responsible and lawful use of natural resources.
