In a landmark event that underscores Zambia’s commitment to sustainable development and biodiversity conservation, the Government of the Republic of Zambia has officially launched the Kafue National Park General Management Plan (2025–2035). The launch ceremony, held in the heart of Zambia’s largest national park, was officiated by The Minister of Tourism Rodney S Sikumba MP, a senior government official who described the occasion as “an important milestone in Zambia’s journey toward sustainable conservation and inclusive tourism development.”
Covering over 22,400 square kilometers, Kafue National Park is not only Zambia’s oldest and largest protected area but also a vital ecological sanctuary within the Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA TFCA). With 199 mammal species, 493 bird species and ecologically significant zones like the Busanga Plains Ramsar Site, Kafue stands among Africa’s most biodiverse and scenic landscapes.
Speaking at the launch, the official highlighted the park’s ecological, cultural and socio-economic significance. “Kafue supports more than 220,000 people across 15 chiefdoms,” he stated. “This plan is not just about conservation, it is about people, livelihoods and sustainable development.”
The General Management Plan (GMP) aims to address pressing challenges such as habitat degradation, human-wildlife conflict, illegal wildlife trade, climate change impacts, infrastructure limitations and low levels of indigenous investment in tourism. The park will now be zoned into six distinct management areas, each with a specific focus on conservation, tourism, research or community use, ensuring a balanced approach that benefits both nature and people.
The launch also unveiled the Strategic Investment Management Action Plan (SIMAPB), a detailed financing and implementation blueprint with a projected US$24.1 million investment over the initial 1–2 years. These early interventions will prioritize critical needs and will be monitored through a rigorous environmental and accountability framework.
“This plan is a roadmap for transformation. We are calling on the private sector, indigenous entrepreneurs, investors and cooperating partners to take full advantage of the opportunities it presents,” the official emphasized.
Collaboration has been central to the plan’s development and future success. Stakeholder input was gathered from traditional leaders, NGOs, conservationists and private investors—reflecting a whole of society approach to environmental governance. Commendation was given to the Government’s collaborative management partnership with African Parks Network through the Greater Kafue Landscape Limited (GKLL) which is tasked with the day to day operations of the park. This model of public private partnership is now being held up as a benchmark for conservation success across the continent.
Gratitude was also extended to key development partners including JICA, the World Bank, the Norwegian Embassy and African Parks Network for their financial and technical support during the plan’s formulation.
“As we look to the next decade, this plan is a solemn promise to future generations, that Zambia is committed to preserving its natural heritage while driving inclusive growth and economic opportunity for its people,” the official concluded.
With this bold new strategy in place, Kafue National Park is set to emerge not only as a globally competitive tourism destination but also as a leading model of community inclusive and ecologically resilient conservation in Africa.
Ministry of Tourism Zambia
©The Agency
