Leaders Unite at Inaugural KAZA TFCA Summit to Bolster Conservation and Socio-Economic Development
The inaugural Kavango Zambezi (KAZA) Transfrontier Conservation Area (TFCA) Heads of State Summit convened today in Livingstone, Zambia, marking a significant milestone in regional conservation and socio-economic development efforts.
The summit brought together esteemed leaders including President Dr. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe, President Dr. Nangolo Mbumba of Namibia, Vice President Mr. Slumber Tsogwane of Botswana, and Angola’s Minister responsible for Tourism.
Hosted by Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema, the summit underscored the commitment of Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe to collaboratively enhance conservation and tourism in the Okavango and Zambezi regions.
The KAZA TFCA, rich in biodiversity and cultural heritage, stands as a testament to centuries of sustainable resource management by traditional leaders.
“Our cultural values have sustainably managed our resources in the KAZA region for centuries. We are duty-bound to continue this responsibility, ensuring the preservation of these natural assets for future generations as those before us did,” President Hichilema stated.
A critical discussion point was the delicate balance between wildlife conservation and the needs of local communities.
The leaders acknowledged that while the region’s abundant wildlife is a vital asset, it occasionally necessitates culling to protect natural habitats and reinvest in conservation efforts.
These measures aim to develop essential infrastructure and improve the livelihoods of local populations.
The summit highlighted the leaders’ shared vision of accelerating socio-economic transformation in the eco-region while prioritizing sustainability. This collaborative approach is expected to bolster tourism, enhance regional cooperation, and promote sustainable development.
President Hichilema expressed his gratitude for the collective efforts, emphasizing the importance of continuing the legacy of environmental stewardship.
“As leaders of the KAZA region, we are committed to facilitating the acceleration of socio-economic transformation in the eco-region while prioritizing sustainability,” he affirmed.
