Zimparks Kariba boss leaves legacy of practical problem solving in human wildlife conflict

By Brenna Matendera

The Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (Zimparks) Senior Manager, Mr. Artwell Sibanda, has officially closed a chapter of eight years of practical problem solving in the human wildlife conflict.

He has made an emotional farewell to local stakeholders after being transferred to Victoria falls.

But unlike past handovers that focused mainly on achievements, stakeholders chose to frame Sibanda’s legacy around a quieter, community centered theme: “peaceful reforms” a style of leadership described as rooted in consultation, respect for livelihoods, and practical problem solving.

That approach made Sibanda resolve different problems of human wildlife conflict that saw many people being trampled by elephants or fisherman attacked by crocodiles.

The farewell event held recently in Kariba drew a host of prominent leaders and partners, including Senator James Gumpo, Zimparks Mashonaland West Senior Regional Manager Felix Chimeramombe, District Development Coordinator Mr. Witness Kufa, and the African Pax Country Manager Mr. Sithole. Also present was Lt. Colonel Muchechesi, alongside other local representatives and community figures.

In a statement that underscored Sibanda’s work ethic, Mr. Daniel Sithole, Country Manager for Matusadona Conservation Trust, said Sibanda stood out for being the type of officer who led from the front.

“Mr. Sibanda was a hardworking person,” Sithole said. “We were employed at the same time and worked different actions together. He always kept discipline, followed procedures, and still made sure people understood why conservation decisions were being made.”

Sithole said the relationship between Zimparks and stakeholders in Kariba was strengthened partly because Sibanda’s engagement style was consistently practical rather than confrontational.

Lt. Colonel Muchechesi told stakeholders and guests that Sibanda’s leadership contributed to a culture of order and coordination.

“Kariba needed a manager who could build respect across sectors,” he said, praising Sibanda for maintaining professionalism and encouraging cooperation in difficult situations.

Mr. Witness Kufa, District Development Coordinator, added that Sibanda’s approach helped reduce friction between conservation efforts and community priorities.

“His engagements were calm, respectful, and solutions-oriented,” Kufa said. “That made it easier for development partners and Zimparks to work together with shared understanding.”

Also speaking, Senator James Gumpo encouraged stakeholders to maintain the spirit of collaboration that characterized Sibanda’s tenure.

“Kariba’s conservation story cannot be told by Zimparks alone,” Gumpo said. “We must all continue supporting the work that keeps our environment productive for present and future generations.”

The farewell also served as a platform for direction as Mr. Masimba Nyoni was welcomed as incoming Senior Area Manager for Kariba.

Felix Chimeramomb, Zimparks’ Senior Regional Manager, urged Nyoni not merely to continue routines, but to learn from what had already been achieved under Sibanda.

“To the incoming Senior Area Manager, Masimba Nyoni, follow the footprint that was done by the outgoing Senior Area Manager Artwel Sibanda,” Chimeramombe said. “Build on that foundation with even greater dedication.”
While tributes dominated the program, speakers also used the occasion to address pressing environmental concerns—especially around declining kapenta populations in Lake Kariba.

Stakeholders noted that conservation strategies must be matched with informed support for fishers and producers to avoid undermining livelihoods.

Beyond Zimparks and government circles, the ceremony was marked by strong participation from Sibanda’s faith community. Sibanda serves as the **Kariba satellite leader for the Prophetic Healing and Deliverance Ministries (PHD), led by Prophet Magaya, and church members turned out in large numbers to honour him.

Touched by the turnout, Mr. Sibanda expressed gratitude and reflected on the relationships forged during his tenure.

“This event came as a surprise to me,” Sibanda said. “Your presence here is a testimony that we worked together very well.”

As Kariba moves forward, stakeholders say they expect Nyoni to sustain the inclusive engagement approach credited to Sibanda one that, according to them, helped keep conservation efforts connected to the people who live with wildlife and waters every day.

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