Zawa

In order to enforce domestic wildlife protection legislation the Zambian Wildlife Authorities (ZAWA) organise anti-poaching teams to patrol the Lower Zambezi National Park (LZNP) and the surrounding game management areas (GMAs).

CLZ works closely with ZAWA and local Community Resource Boards under a memorandum of understanding. One of CLZ’s main activities includes the support of village scouts with law enforcement activities by providing technical, financial and material support.

Currently CLZ supports on average 9 patrol team deployments per month in the Chiawa GMA and LZNP by providing patrol rations, uniforms, training, deployments, GPS tracking devices and incentives. The patrol teams play a vital role in park and game management protection.

ZAWA’s Lower Zambezi Management Unit, consisting of a Warden, Operations Rangers and Wildlife Police Officers, is responsible for the administration and protection of the LZNP and surrounding GMA’s covering more than 12,000 square miles including the Chiawa GMA to the West, the Rufunsa GMA to the East and the Luano GMA to the North. The Lower Zambezi Management Unit, currently totalling 112 officers including the administrative staff, only has one vehicle available to protect this area.

One Area Warden has the responsibility to protect the wildlife, the habitat and the communities in this area and Government resources are simply not available to allow him to do this effectively.

For more information please visit www.zawa.org.zm