Big Game Hunting Area

It is one of the largest and key blocks within the expansive Matetsi Safari Area, located in northwestern Zimbabwe. This region is known for its critical role in wildlife conservation and sustainable hunting practices, and Unit 6 is no exception. Spanning several thousand hectares, it serves as both a hunting ground and a biodiversity hotspot, contributing to Zimbabwe’s broader wildlife management and ecological preservation initiatives

Ecologically, Matetsi Unit 6 supports a diverse range of species, including large populations of African elephants, buffalo, lions, and leopards, as well as various plains game such as kudu, impala, and sable antelope. The unit’s proximity to Hwange National Park enhances the free movement of wildlife between protected and hunting areas, creating a dynamic ecosystem that supports both conservation and regulated hunting. The varied landscape, which includes savannahs, woodlands, and riverine areas, provides suitable habitats for a wide array of fauna and flora.

Sustainable hunting is a cornerstone of operations in Matetsi Unit 6. Strict quotas are established by Zimbabwe’s Parks and Wildlife Management Authority to ensure that hunting activities do not threaten wildlife populations. These quotas are determined through scientific assessments of the species' health and population numbers, and professional safari operators are required to adhere to them. By controlling the number of animals taken, Unit 6 helps maintain ecological balance while generating critical revenue for conservation and anti-poaching programs.

Revenue from hunting in Unit 6 is also vital to the surrounding local communities. It provides economic opportunities through employment and community development projects, aligning with Zimbabwe’s community-based natural resource management (CBNRM) programs. Additionally, hunting fees contribute to funding initiatives aimed at reducing human-wildlife conflict and promoting sustainable livelihoods.

Matetsi Unit 6 not only serves as an important area for trophy hunting but also for eco-tourism. The blend of hunting and conservation-focused tourism in Unit 6 highlights Zimbabwe’s commitment to balancing wildlife use with long-term preservation efforts, ensuring the protection of its natural heritage for future generations.