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During the SADC Transfrontier Conservation Areas International Conference held in Harare, Zimbabwe over the period 19 – 21 May 2025, the International Coordinator for the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Conservation Area, Mr. Gwinyai Muti mentioned that the signing of a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Limpopo Watercourse Commission (LIMCOM) and the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Conservation Area (GLTFCA) is a major milestone in strengthening coordination between transboundary conservation and water management initiatives in southern Africa.
The agreement signed in December 2024 will see the two organizations, who share a common geographical footprint and operate at a similar scale of influence, work together to advance the joint management of freshwater resources within the GLTFCA and the Limpopo River Basin (LRB) that are home to millions of people and other inhabitants.
Therefore, harnessing the potential of freshwater resources within the GLTFCA (spanning the Limpopo National Park in Mozambique, Kruger National Park in South Africa, and Gonarezhou National Park in Zimbabwe) and the LRB (shared by Botswana, Mozambique, South Africa, and Zimbabwe) can contribute significantly to national and local economic development, community empowerment, and poverty reduction through sustainable development.
The MoU also lays a foundation for establishing a framework for collaboration and coordination between LIMCOM and the GLTFCA in implementing the GLTFCA Freshwater Resource Management Strategy (FRMS). The GLTFCA FRMS seeks to promote sustainable freshwater management in the region. Its key strategic areas include Governance and Institutional Integration, Ecosystem-based Integrated Freshwater Resources Management, promoting Ecosystem Services Beneficiation, and Partnerships, Collaboration, and Coordination.
As part of this agreement, LIMCOM and the GLTFCA will cooperate on managing freshwater resources within the shared geographical area and areas both upstream and downstream that may impact the quality and quantity of resources flowing through shared areas. Both parties will also implement joint projects and interventions at transboundary, national, and local levels.
Speaking on this historic partnership, LIMCOM Executive Secretary, Mr. Sergio Sitoe said, “The joint management of transboundary freshwater resources is crucial for ensuring the sustainable use of our valuable freshwater resources within the Limpopo River Basin. This partnership marks a significant step towards achieving our shared goals of conservation and sustainable development.”
GLTFCA International Coordinator, Mr. Gwinyai Muti concurred, adding “The MoU will enhance the sustainable use of freshwater resources, improving ecosystem integrity and community livelihoods within and around the GLTFCA and the Limpopo River Basin. Together, we can create a positive impact on both the environment and the communities that depend on these resources.”
The MoU was signed by Mr. Sitoe on behalf of LIMCOM Member States. Representatives of the GLTFCA Secretariat, consisting of the Director General of the National Administration of Conservation Areas (ANAC) of Mozambique, Mr. PejulCalenga; the Chief Executive Officer of the South African National Parks (SANParks), Ms. Hapiloe Sello; and the then Director General of the Zimbabwe Parks & Wildlife Management Authority (ZIMParks), Dr. Fulton Mangwanya, signed on behalf of the GLTFCA countries.
