Residents of Simoonga Rural Township in Livingstone District, Southern Zambia, have petitioned the government to withdraw the authorization of Sinde Game Ranch, citing a breach of procedure.
The residents argue that they were not consulted beforehand and insist they will not support a development that threatens their livelihoods.
Simoonga Ward Councilor Peter Munyama has backed the petition, stressing that the land designated for the game ranch was originally earmarked for agriculture. He has warned that the presence of wildlife in close proximity to the community poses a potential risk of increased human-wildlife conflict.
On May 29, 2025, the Ministry of Tourism granted authorization to Farm No. 2224, Sinde Game Ranch, to keep wild animals in captivity for commercial purposes.
Department of National Parks and Wildlife Director, Dominic Chiinda, stated that the authorization excludes species such as leopard, hyena, wild dog, elephant, rhinoceros, and any other exotic wildlife.
Mr. Chiinda further clarified during a recent tourism stakeholders’ meeting that his department had adhered to all necessary procedures in processing the application, but emphasized that his office remains open for further community engagement.
By Gabriel Josias Muuba.
