Zambia Undertakes Largest-Ever Wildlife Translocation to Boost Conservation and Tourism
The Ministry of Tourism, in collaboration with key stakeholders, has carried out the nation’s largest wildlife translocation, moving over 1,650 wildebeest and 300 zebras from Liuwa Plain National Park to Kafue National Park.
Government officials, traditional leaders, and conservation partners witnessed the historic event, hailed as a major step in Zambia’s commitment to wildlife conservation and tourism development.
Tourism Minister Hon. Rodney Sikumba praised the partnerships that made the relocation possible, noting that nature-based tourism is central to Zambia’s appeal. “Reintroducing species into our national parks enhances wildlife visibility for tourists and creates balanced ecosystems where nature can thrive,” he said.
The $1.6 million initiative will also see Liuwa Plain receive 50 Lichtenstein hartebeests, a species absent from the park for over 30 years. Plans are in place for further translocations to Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, involving buffalo, zebras, and rhinos.
Tourism Permanent Secretary Mr Evans Muhanga commended the move for improving tourist experiences and strengthening wildlife genetics. Guy Robinson, Chairman of Greater Kafue Landscape Limited, credited strong anti-poaching measures for protecting the park’s growing animal populations and highlighted a surge in domestic tourism, with local visitor numbers doubling in recent years.
Traditional leaders Chief Mulendema of Mumbwa and Chief Kahare of Nkeyema applauded the initiative, citing benefits for local communities through jobs and increased tourism revenue.
