Zimbabwe exports wildlife to Equatorial Guinea

The Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) has begun translocating selected plains game species to the Republic of Equatorial Guinea under a government-to-government conservation cooperation agreement aimed at strengthening biodiversity conservation across Africa.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, ZimParks said the initiative follows a formal request from the government of Equatorial Guinea for Zimbabwe's technical expertise in wildlife conservation to help replenish selected wildlife populations in its protected areas.

"The exercise is part of Zimbabwe's commitment to regional conservation cooperation and knowledge sharing, with the objective of supporting biodiversity restoration while promoting sustainable development across the continent," the authority said.

ZimParks said comprehensive ecological and habitat suitability assessments were conducted before the programme commenced to ensure the selected release sites in Equatorial Guinea can sustainably support the relocated animals.

"Prior to implementation, ecological and habitat suitability assessments were conducted by wildlife experts, confirming that the proposed release sites are appropriate and that the programme will support long-term conservation, ecotourism development and sustainable community livelihoods," the statement said.

The wildlife authority emphasised that the relocation would have no adverse impact on Zimbabwe's wildlife populations, as only common plains game species with healthy and sustainable populations were selected.

"The species involved are common plains game found in healthy and sustainable populations in Zimbabwe. Their removal has been guided by scientific assessments to ensure there is no adverse impact on Zimbabwe's biodiversity, ecological integrity or wildlife populations," ZimParks said.

It also assured the public that none of the animals being relocated are threatened or endangered species and that the operation is being conducted in accordance with Zimbabwean legislation and internationally recognised animal welfare standards.

"The capture, handling and transportation processes are being carried out by experienced wildlife professionals in accordance with Zimbabwe's law, internationally accepted animal welfare standards, and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Live Animals Regulations," the authority said.

ZimParks said the initiative reflects Zimbabwe's continued commitment to responsible wildlife management and regional collaboration in conservation.

"The country will continue working with fellow African nations to implement practical conservation solutions that strengthen resilient ecosystems while supporting ecotourism and community livelihoods," the authority said.