Community rights and governance

A comprehensive review of 354 legal texts on wildlife and related sectors was completed, validated and published on the SWM Legal Hub in 2023. This review informed the successful registration of the Mize Community Conservancy under the Wildlife Act, covering 585 km². In 2024–2025, a comprehensive customary law analysis was conducted across Nyawa Chiefdom, engaging 57 participants from 20 villages, including senior headmen, women and youth. Ten new community resource board members (three women) were elected, and governance structures were strengthened through exchange visits and training supported by Peace Parks Foundation and the Wildlife Producers Association of Zambia. 

Adaptive wildlife management

Twelve natural resource monitors were trained in ecological monitoring, data management and the use of Spatial Monitoring and Reporting Tool (SMART) for adaptive management. Ten community scouts (two women) were recruited for training by the Department of National Parks and Wildlife to support wildlife protection and patrols. Boundary mapping and a survey of the MiCC were completed as part of the management planning process. Preparations for fencing and restocking a 10 000 hectare community wildlife sanctuary are underway with Peace Parks Foundation. It will serve as a breeding and income-generating area.

Healthy and sustainable supply chains and consumption

Baseline assessments on non-timber forest products, aquaculture and small livestock value chains guided new enterprise development plans. Five fish farming groups were established, one was formally registered as a cooperative and nine ponds were stocked with over 11 000 fingerlings. Beekeeping cooperatives installed 60 modern hives across three sites. Training in financial literacy, record-keeping and cooperative governance reached more than 100 participants. These enterprises now contribute to improved household nutrition and income security while reducing dependence on wild meat and pressure on wildlife populations.

Zoonotic risk prevention and management

The SWM Programme applies a multisectoral One Health approach to reduce zoonotic risks in Nyawa Chiefdom. Three surveys involving 308 participants assessed livestock management, meat handling and consumption practices. Results informed the design of the 2025 anthrax and trypanosomiasis study with the Central Veterinary Research Institute and the Tsetse and Trypanosomiasis Control Unit. Water points and spray races are being developed to reduce disease transmission between livestock and wildlife. Training on safer butchery, food preparation and human–wildlife interaction reached 22 community representatives.