VFWT: Local heroes bringing harmony
Victor Sibanda
In the shadow of the mighty Mosi-oa-Tunya, the Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust (VFWT) is quietly etching its name in history. Not with grand pronouncements, but with the dedication of passionate individuals who understand that true conservation thrives alongside empowered communities.
The initiative promotes tourism as well as the socio-economic development of the local people.
VFWT isn’t an average wildlife outfit. They suit up and patrol against poachers, but their vision extends far beyond the immediate threats. They believe that lasting solutions lie in education, collaboration, and fostering a sense of shared responsibility for the land.
This commitment takes many forms. From schoolchildren visiting the Trust’s facilities to learn about the wonders of the wild, to the Monde community’s brand new veterinary clinic, VFWT is weaving a web of connection between people and nature.
“We invest heavily in educational programs,” says Spadewerk, the Trust’s Rescue and Rehabilitation Program Officer. “We empower locals with the knowledge and skills to manage their resources sustainably, and most importantly, feel a sense of ownership over the wildlife that shares their land.”
This collaborative spirit extends beyond the Trust’s borders. They work hand-in-hand with local authorities, recognizing that true change requires a united front.
The impact is undeniable. ” In 2016 we opened the doors to a new clinical facility for all domestic and livestock animal cases that need veterinary treatment. This facility is situated in the Monde rural community and also serves as the Victoria Falls Animal Health and Welfare Centre for the people of that community. We rescue, rehabilitate and release wildlife harmed by people,” said Spadewerk.
“We are very happy to have opened the doors to the Victoria Falls Community Animal Health and Welfare Centre (CAHWC). This Centre is situated in the Monde rural community living adjacent to Victoria Falls. It serves the rural community as a facility to treat their domestic animals and livestock in an effort to improve the livelihoods of the people living alongside wildlife. If subsistence farmers are able to have healthy livestock as a source of income or protein, they are less likely to poach and poison wildlife,” said Spadewerk.
Monde residents like Jabulani Zulu sing the praises of the new veterinary clinic, a haven for their ailing livestock and a source of employment for the community.
Environmentalists like Mahlabezulu Zulu applaud the Trust’s dedication to rescuing injured animals, returning them to the wilderness they call home.
VFWT’s story isn’t just about saving individual animals, it’s about promoting coexistence. It’s about a future where majestic creatures roam free, and the communities that share their land thrive alongside them. As Councillor for the Kachecheti Ward 3 , Give-me-again Moyo aptly summarizes, “The Trust is engaging in sustainable natural resources management, and that’s something we can all get behind. As Hwange Rural District Councillors, we think the project is here to stay as it is certainly proving to be a reliable source of livelihoods for the communities around and at the same time providing medical care and rehabilitation animal species.”
In the heart of Zimbabwe, a quiet revolution is unfolding, one where conservation and community rise together, leaving an indelible mark on the wild and the hearts of its people. Efforts to contact ZimParks proved fruitless as several calls went unanswered
