Last week, Zimbabwe proudly hosted a landmark event for environmental sustainability and regional cooperation: the SADC Transfrontier Conservation Areas (TFCA) International Conference and Summit of Heads of State and Government. Held at the Harare International Conference Centre (HICC) from May 19th to 23rd, 2025, this summit marked a significant milestone, celebrating 25 years of TFCA development since the inception of the first TFCA, the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park.
Theme: “Transfrontier Conservation Areas – 25 years of cooperation for regional integration and sustainable development.”
The gravity of this theme cannot be overstated. TFCAs represent a unique approach to conservation, transcending political boundaries to protect shared ecosystems, foster biodiversity, and promote sustainable livelihoods for communities within and around these vital areas. For the ESG community, this approach directly aligns with the Environmental and Social pillars, demonstrating how regional collaboration can drive significant positive impact.
Key Highlights and Outcomes:
The week’s agenda was packed with strategic discussions, culminating in high-level commitments:
- International Conference (May 19-20): Experts, conservationists, and stakeholders delved into the intricacies of TFCA management, sharing best practices and addressing challenges such as wildlife overpopulation and the escalating impacts of climate change on our natural heritage.
- Official Meetings (May 21-22): Senior Officials and Ministers responsible for Environment, Natural Resources, and Tourism met to formalize recommendations and prepare for the Heads of State summit, ensuring a unified regional approach.
- Heads of State and Government Summit (May 23): Chaired by our own H.E. President Dr. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, in his capacity as the SADC Chairperson, the summit was the pinnacle of the week. Leaders from across the SADC region affirmed their commitment to the TFCA Programme, with anticipated outcomes including:
- The development of a robust Action Plan for the SADC TFCA Programme (2023-2033), providing a clear roadmap for the next decade of conservation efforts.
- The potential signing of new binding agreements for establishing additional TFCAs, expanding the network of protected areas across the region.
- Formalization of Joint Management Frameworks, ensuring coordinated efforts in cross-border conservation.
- Discussions on sustainable financing agreements, critical for the long-term viability and success of TFCAs.
Why This Matters for ESG Network Zimbabwe:
This summit underscores the profound connection between environmental stewardship, social development, and good governance in our region. For businesses and organizations focused on ESG principles:
- Environmental Impact: TFCAs are crucial for biodiversity conservation, climate resilience, and sustainable resource management – all core to the ‘E’ in ESG. The commitments made will shape the ecological future of Southern Africa.
- Social Impact: The success of TFCAs relies heavily on community engagement, benefit-sharing, and improved livelihoods for those living near these areas. This aligns with the ‘S’ in ESG, emphasizing equitable development and human well-being.
- Governance: The collaborative nature of TFCAs, involving multiple governments, international partners (like the EU and Germany who supported this summit), and diverse stakeholders, exemplifies strong governance and cross-border cooperation – directly linking to the ‘G’ in ESG.
As ESG Champions, we encourage you to reflect on how your organizations can contribute to and benefit from the outcomes of this summit. Whether through responsible sourcing, sustainable tourism initiatives, community development projects, or advocating for stronger environmental policies, our collective efforts are vital.
We will continue to monitor the implementation of the SADC TFCA Action Plan and share relevant updates. Let’s work together to drive positive change and contribute to a more sustainable and resilient Southern Africa.
Stay Connected
Please contact us at on admin@esgnetworkzimbabwe.co.zw, or simply call us on 0774768895/ +263882900740.
Follow us on social media to stay updated on the latest ESG news, events, and resources
