ANNOUNCEMENT FROM DR. MTSAMBIWA RE TEMPORARY SUSPENSION OF HUNTING PERMITS..

We advise that the suspension was solely for the purpose of verifying the authenticity of the permits.

There have been several allegation of illegal hunts taking place in the country using forged permits . This may result in clients not being able to export their trophies from Zimbabwe which in turn may discredit hunting in the country.

As a result it was felt prudent that all permits used for hunting this season should have their authenticity verified, hence this exercise. In addition this exercise would put the Authority in a position were it can confidently comment on the legality or illegality of the hunts. All illegal hunts will then be published and perpetrators brought to book. Furthermore the current permit system will be reviewed to add more security features to reduce or avoid the use of forged permits.

We advise clients that hunting in Zimbabwe has not been stopped but that potential clients should assist in the verification process. This can be done through our offices by contacting the Business Development Manager responsible for hunting who is Mr. Tawanda Chipere, available on tchipere@zimparks.co.zw or telephone +263 912 420 496 or + 263 4 792731 direct line.

However as it stands right now all the permits that have been verified were found authentic such that we have not yet apprehended anybody. This exercise runs to the end of the year.

Dr. M.Z. Mtsambiwa
Director General
Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority
Cell: +263 11 870160, +263 912 217405
Tel: +263-4-705344
Fax: +263-4-790567
www.zimparks.com

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