President Mnangagwa Champions Innovation and Inclusion in Conservation at Regional Summit

23 May 2025

By Charity Chikara

President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa has called for a shift towards innovation, science-led solutions, and inclusive approaches in the management of Southern Africa’s natural resources, as he officially opened the SADC Transfrontier Conservation Area (TFCA) Summit in Harare earlier today.

The summit, which marks 25 years of regional cooperation in biodiversity conservation, sustainable development, and ecotourism, has drawn heads of state and senior officials from across the region, including Malawian President Lazarus Chakwera.

Addressing delegates, President Mnangagwa emphasised the importance of future-oriented conservation strategies that centre around local communities and embrace modern, sustainable practices.

“Going into the future, I urge all of us to embrace innovation, science-based solutions, and community-driven approaches to conservation,” he said.

He underscored the critical role of underrepresented groups in shaping the sector, particularly young people and women, who he said hold the key to a resilient, people-driven conservation model.

“The youth of our countries, along with women, should play a greater role in our efforts, riding on the ingenuity and hard work ethic of this demographic.”

Highlighting the broader development potential of the conservation sector, the President called for economic models that not only protect the environment but also transform lives at the grassroots level.

“By the same token, robust and responsive socio-economic models must be developed so that the financial benefits of this sector accrue to broader aspects of grassroots development, while at the same time building resilience and empowering communities within our countries.”

President Mnangagwa also praised the TFCA model for fostering cooperation across borders and proving that economic progress and environmental protection are not mutually exclusive.

“Conservation must be inclusive, engaging governments, local communities, researchers and the private sector. Undoubtedly, the Transfrontier Conservation Areas Model has proven that environmental protection and socio-economic development are mutually reinforcing and complementary. By empowering rural communities, enhancing tourism infrastructure, and promoting cross-border law enforcement operations, we have laid a strong foundation for lasting impact.”

The TFCA initiative links protected areas across national borders, enabling countries to jointly manage shared ecosystems, wildlife corridors, and natural resources. The summit continues with technical sessions expected to refine cross-border strategies for climate resilience, law enforcement, and sustainable tourism.

Delegates are also expected to adopt a declaration reaffirming regional commitment to inclusive conservation as a pillar for both ecological sustainability and socio-economic transformation.