Conservation Debates Premiere

Jun 12, 2025

On 13 June 2025, Marist Brothers High School in Hwange became the vibrant hub for an exchange of ideas during the 2025 Association for Tourism Hwange (ATH) Conservation Debate Competition. The event brought together eight secondary schools from across the Hwange region, each eager to engage with the complex challenges facing Hwange National Park and its surrounding communities.

The first round of debates was split between two critical themes that touch the heart of Hwange’s environmental and social fabric. The first theme, Tourism and Conservation Balance, asked a challenging question: Should the promotion of tourism in Hwange National Park be prioritised over conservation efforts to attract more visitors? Nechilibi Secondary School faced off against Dampa Secondary School, while Songwa Secondary School went head-to-head with Nembila Secondary School. These matchups explored the delicate interplay between economic growth fueled by tourism and the imperative to protect the fragile ecosystems that make Hwange unique.

         

Meanwhile, the second theme brought the debate closer to home with the question: Should local communities be given more control over the management and conservation of Hwange National Park, even if it conflicts with national policies? Here, Marist Brothers High School debated Detema Secondary School and Lupote Secondary School challenged Makwandara Secondary School. These discussions highlighted the essential roles local people play in shaping the future of their environment, touching on issues of power, ownership and collaboration.

         

Following intense rounds of arguments, critical thinking and passionate presentations, four schools emerged to advance to the second round: Nechilibi, Songwa, Detema and Nembila. Their performances showcased deep research, compelling evidence and an earnest commitment to the issues at hand. Ultimately, Detema Secondary School claimed first place, with Songwa securing the runner-up position. Nechilibi and Nembila took third and fourth places, respectively, an impressive showing that reflected the high calibre of all participating teams.

                        

The debate session opened a platform for young minds to voice their opinions. One of those voices came from an inspirational young lady with so much potential just like the others, the Headgirl of Marist Brothers High School. She presented a speech on Conservation Efforts & shared with the other brilliant minds what the Association of Tourism Hwange is all about. And of course, not forgetting our guest of honour, the Headmistress of Marist Brothers High School. She also shared her remarks on the Importance of ATH in our modern societies.

        

The success of this event would not have been possible without the support of several key partners and stakeholders deeply invested in Hwange’s future. The Conservation and Wildlife Fund, Zone Atelier, Hwange Wildlife Safaris, the Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, Gobelo, Gwango, Hwange Horseback Safaris, Painted Dog Conservation and Hwange Safari Lodge all played vital roles, contributing resources, expertise and coordination to ensure a meaningful and well-organised competition. Representatives from the Ministry of Education were present, underscoring the importance of integrating environmental awareness into the education system. Legal authorities, the Forestry Commission, and the City Council also attended, reflecting a shared commitment across sectors to support youth engagement and conservation advocacy. We also had Lilian Dube from Hwange High School, Tracy Peacock from Iganyana Tented Camp and an Environmentalist from WILDCRU, Mike January fairly adjudicating over the debates.

One of the most notable aspects of the debate was the strong participation of girls, with several schools, notably Songwa Secondary School, Dampa and Marist Brothers High School, fielding all-girls teams. In total, the event had more girls than boys participating, a trend that speaks volumes about the growing confidence and leadership potential of girls in public speaking compared to other subjects.

The 2025 ATH Conservation Debate Competition provided a platform where young voices met the realities of their world with intelligence, passion and hope. These students are not just debating abstract concepts; they are grappling with questions that affect their communities, their environment and their future. Through events like this, ATH continues to nurture informed, confident and active citizens ready to lead Hwange toward a sustainable tomorrow.