With its astonishing landscapes, rich biodiversity, and warm hospitality, this recognition is well-deserved. The European Union, joining forces with Zimbabwe, is investing more than USD 42 million to preserve the country’s rich biodiversity and promote tourism development that uplifts rural communities.

The EU’s conservation efforts are focused on key areas such as the Mid-Zambezi and the South-East Lowveld, further reinforcing the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Transfrontier Conservation Areas (TFCAs) that Zimbabwe shares with its neighbours. These include:

• 🌍 The Great Limpopo TFCA
• 🌍 The Mana Pools – Lower Zambezi TFCA
• 🌍 The Zimbabwe–Mozambique–Zambia TFCA
• 🌍 The Kavango–Zambezi TFCA
• 🌍 The Chimanimani TFCA

Under the leadership of the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks), these initiatives aim to protect and preserve the region's unique ecosystems and diverse wildlife. ZimParks remains committed to safeguarding biodiversity, ensuring that future generations can continue to benefit from and enjoy Zimbabwe’s natural heritage.

Takudzwa Kaseke/2024

The EU is proudly supporting these conservation efforts through the NaturAfrica programme, which strengthens community-driven conservation initiatives and fosters cross-border collaboration within the TFCAs. This programme not only contributes to biodiversity preservation but also enhances community resilience, creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for people living in and around these regions.

Zimbabwe, with its exceptional natural beauty, demonstrates a deep commitment to conservation and community empowerment. These efforts ensure that as tourism grows, both the planet and its people are prioritized.

Jared Bunga/2024

As Zimbabwe enters the 2025 list as a top global travel destination, we invite visitors to explore its majestic landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant communities — and to experience firsthand the positive impact of sustainable tourism and international cooperation.

Join us in celebrating Zimbabwe’s journey toward becoming a premier global tourist destination, and discover how partnerships like those between the EU and Zimbabwe are helping build a greener, more sustainable future for all.

📸 Images accompanying this story are courtesy of photographers who participated in the EU Delegation’s 2024 Biodiversity Photo Competition, held under the celebration of the EU’s Green Diplomacy Weeks.

Anjuli Rebelo/2024