Chairperson of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Environment, Climate and Wildlife Cde Sam Matema (Zanu-PF) presented a joint report done by his committee and the Senate Thematic Committee on the Bill following public hearings legislators conducted. In their recommendations, Cde Matema said the Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife should provide a compelling justification for the proposed removal of wildlife ownership rights on privately managed land, ensuring alignment with constitutional property rights and international obligations. “The Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife should provide for a transparent and equitable quota management system in the Bill that balances the interests of both the authority and landowners.,” said Cde Matema who is the MP for Buhera Central. “The Bill should have a provision that clearly stipulates how the benefits will be shared and distributed among the communities surrounding the wildlife areas. The Bill should have a provision that clearly specifies how the Human Wildlife Conflict Relief Fund (HWCRF) would be resourced, managed and its proceeds distributed among the beneficiaries.” Cde Matema said the proposed amendments on the principal law had the potential to significantly impact the environment, tourism industry and communities. “While the overall goal of protecting wildlife and promoting sustainable utilisation is commendable, the legislation requires careful consideration and refinement to address the concerns raised by various stakeholders,” he said. https://www.herald.co.zw/bill-to-compensate-victims-of-human-wildlife-conflict-in-parly/