Zambia Reaffirms Commitment to KAZA-TFCA at COSO Meeting in Livingstone
The Ministry of Tourism has reaffirmed Zambia’s dedication to the Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA-TFCA), convening a Committee of Senior Officials (COSO) meeting in Livingstone alongside representatives from KAZA member states and the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
Speaking on behalf of Permanent Secretary Mr. Evans Muhanga, Mr. Dominic Chiinda, Director of the Department of National Parks and Wildlife, highlighted Livingstone’s dual role as Zambia’s tourism hub and a gateway into KAZA-TFCA.
“Livingstone is a living example of what makes KAZA unique, its rich biodiversity, cultural heritage, and cross-border tourism potential,” he said, noting that the Victoria Falls, Mosi-oa-Tunya, symbolises the natural wonders member states are committed to protecting.
Through Mr. Chiinda, Permanent Secretary Muhanga called for harmonisation of policies, alignment of programmes, and promotion of initiatives that deliver tangible benefits to wildlife, communities, and regional economies.
“KAZA is more than a conservation area; it is a catalyst for economic transformation through sustainable tourism, community empowerment, and shared natural resource management,” he emphasised.
Mr. Muhanga further urged member states to embrace innovation and deepen collaboration in tackling pressing issues such as climate change, habitat loss, and wildlife crime, noting that these challenges offer opportunities to leverage technology and position KAZA as a global model for transboundary conservation and sustainable tourism development.
The COSO meeting concluded with a call for unity, openness, and practical solutions to ensure KAZA remains a living legacy for generations to come.
