Outcry over Hwange park road detour

A proposed 45-kilometre detour through Hwange National Park has sparked strong opposition from leading conservation and tourism operators, who warn that the route threatens wildlife corridors and the local economy.

The detour, part of the Bulawayo-Victoria Falls Road rehabilitation project being undertaken by Asphalt Products, would reroute traffic from Cross Mabale to Mpofu, Dete, and Cross Dete. However, stakeholders allege that they were not consulted before the plan was finalised.

In a letter dated October 17, Painted Dog Conservation (PDC) executive director Peter Blinston described the area as a "critical wildlife corridor and buffer," essential for the safe movement of animals between Hwange National Park and surrounding lands. He warned that commercial traffic through this sensitive zone could "severely undermine conservation gains" and pose a "grave risk" to endangered species including painted dogs and elephants.

Amalinda Safari Collection, which operates Khulu Bush Camp, Ivory Lodge, and Sable Valley, echoed these concerns in an October 16 letter. CEO Sharon Stead highlighted both ecological and operational threats, noting that the detour "traverses critical wildlife pathways and migratory routes" and could lead to increased animal mortality.

The tourism operator also raised practical issues, including the extra 45-kilometre extension for vehicles and the unsuitability of minor district roads for heavy commercial traffic. Stead warned that this could result in delays, accelerated road degradation, and a compromised service for guests, putting tourism revenue and local employment at risk.

Both PDC and Amalinda stressed that key stakeholders were not consulted, and urged Asphalt Products and the Transport Ministry to suspend the current detour plan while exploring less intrusive alternatives.

"The project threatens the economic sustainability of tourism and conservation operations in the area - sectors that rely heavily on Hwange's unique wildlife heritage," Blinston said.

Attempts to reach Asphalt Products managing director Francis Mangwendeza and Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona were unsuccessful, with Mangwendeza referring questions to the ministry and Minister Mhona not responding.

The dispute highlights the ongoing tension between infrastructure development and environmental preservation, particularly in ecologically sensitive regions like Hwange. With the Bulawayo-Victoria Falls Highway in need of urgent rehabilitation, finding a balance between development and conservation remains a pressing challenge.