Safety & Security Committee
Collective preservation through improved quality of life for residents in the Hwange region
The Safety & Security Committee of the Association of Tourism Hwange (ATH) exists to protect what matters most, our people, our wildlife and the visitors who come to experience this unique region that is untamed and unforgettable. Safety is the foundation of both community life and tourism and without it, conservation and development cannot thrive. This committee works to prevent threats such as poaching and wildlife crime, while also improving emergency response and ensuring that every guest feels welcome and secure. This Committee builds strong partnerships with local communities, law enforcement and conservation groups while creating an environment where families, rangers and travelers alike can live, work and explore with confidence.
Our Objectives include improving coordination of anti-poaching efforts; supporting and empowering law enforcement agencies in their efforts to combat poaching; increasing stakeholders visibility in communities to build trust and support for conservation efforts.
What we aim to do in 2025
- Gather data on exisiting safety concerns
- Gather data on exisiting security teams and measures
- Define the vision for Safety & Security
- Set safety project targets & goals
- Evaluate the feasibility & impact of proposed initiatives
- Identify potential roadblocks & risks
- Define roles, projects scope & budgets
- Finalise safety training programs for Guides and Rangers
- Establish 2026 project workplans
- Launch safety intitiatives
- Roll out communication plans for community awareness
- Set KPIs for monitoring success
- Safety & Security Committee
- info@explorehwange.com
Antipoaching
The Safety & Security Committee leads anti-poaching efforts in Hwange through patrols, snare-removal operations and intelligence-led monitoring to disrupt wildlife crime. By working with law enforcement, conservation groups, and local communities, the Committee helps protect endangered species, safeguard ecosystems and create safer spaces for both people and wildlife.
Rapid Response APU Team
The team is being formed to provide Hwange with a specialised collection of individuals that can act quickly and effectively against wildlife crime. Its mission is to gather intelligence, investigate offences and follow up to ensure perpetrators are brought to justice. This dedicated team will work hand-in-hand with law enforcement, National Parks, Forestry, conservation groups, and safari operators to share information and strengthen collective action. Beyond enforcement, the APU will also focus on training and capacity building equipping members and local stakeholders with the skills needed to prevent and combat poaching.
The Safety and Security Committee is part of a broader community of Tourism Operators in Hwange whose mission is to showcase and protect the integrity of all national parks in the Hwange region including the surrounding ecosystems, ecology, water bodies, cultural sites and communities. Click here to visit the ATH Stakeholders Agendas and Minutes.
The Committee works to ensure that safety and security efforts in Hwange are guided by vigilance, collaboration and long-term impact, protecting wildlife, safeguarding communities and giving visitors the confidence to explore the region. Click here to view the Safety & Security Committee Agendas & Minutes and here to access the Action Plan.