UPDATE: Zimbabwe Hunting Season Remains Open

SCI has received confirmation yesterday disputing the rumor that Zimbabwe had closed hunting for the 2009 and 2010 seasons. SCI communicated with the Zimbabwean government and learned that hunting for the remainder of the 2009 and for 2010 will continue while Zimbabwe engages in enhanced measures to curb poaching. Zimbabwe’s government, responding to allegations that some 2009 hunting permits were being forged, are now taking extra precautions to confirm that all government issued hunting permits are in fact legitimate. Moving forward into next year, the government will create new government permits that have better forgery security. Below is an excerpt from the Zimbabwean Wildlife Authorities office that verifies the status of hunting for the 2009 and 2010 seasons.

“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 where 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.” - Dr. Mtsambiwa, Director General, Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority.


Source: Safari Club International (SCI)