www.nzira.co.zw Issue 18 1 Travel Zimbabwe www.nzira.co.zw Issue 18 | 2021 Nantwich Lodge Zimbabwe’s Hidden Gem African Parks and the Matusadona Conservation Trust US$5
Cresta Jameson Harare Cresta Lodge Harare Cresta Oasis Harare Cresta Churchill Bulawayo Cresta Sprayview Victoria Falls Standard Single BB Standard Double BB Added perks US$90 US$115 Stay 3 nights & get the 4th one for free US$120 Customize & Make your breakfast in bed special US$70 US$90 Weekender breakfast for guests on room only - US$8 US$75 US$90 Complimentary laundry, car wash facilities, Kiddies sweets US$130 US$170 Convert your breakfast to a breakfast cruise on the mighty Zambezi River. Meal Plans A Sprinkle of Christmas Lovin` Just For You FOR RESERVATIONS: Call: +263 242 487 006-7 Email: [email protected] App: +263 783 733 914 Hotels Where one smile starts another
4 Issue 18 NZiRA Travel Zimbabwe CONTENTS Nantwich Lodge – Zimbabwe’s Historic Gem, Celebrating its 60 years African Parks and Matusadona 8 16 Free to be Wild Sanctuary - Zimbabwe’s Primate Rescue Centre New York Marathon 528 Granola Recipe The all-new Isuzu Mu-X : Bred to be Bold Birding Safaris in Zimbabwe Miss Earth Zimbabwe - My Small Step Towards a Better Planet Adventuring with Wild Horizons - Elephant Orphanage & Sanctuary 13 20 29 34 36 42 47 Contents
www.nzira.co.zw Issue 18 5 CONTENTS 528 Victoria Falls Pioneers - New Kid on the Block Colouring inside the Lines - My Photographic View of Harare Meltonka Basketware 26 30 39 44
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www.nzira.co.zw Issue 18 7 The festive period is here, having us in all sorts of Merry Cheer and marking the end of the year. A season most people like myself are giddy about! Putting up Christmas trees, making that Christmas lunch or holiday booking, or buying that special Christmas gift are part of the things we look forward to during this time. This is a season very special to me and for us at NZiRA, a time we reflect on the past year and just how far we’ve come, gratitude fills our hearts as we have had incredible support from you our readers, advertisers and hotel groups we have worked with this past year. 2021 was an interesting one, from travel restrictions, lockdowns, to new varients; these and a number of other factors greatly affected the tourism industry all over the world and in Zimbabwe. It wasn’t all gloomy, we found a few things worth celebrating- from mass vaccination campaigns marked with great uptake around the country with notable mention Victoria Falls City! The great uptake by the tourism industry operators and the COVID safety measures implemented all around meant that guests were assured of an enjoyable but safe experience. Drawing lessons from 2020, new strategies were applied and armed with a somewhat better understanding of COVID 19, most operators opened their doors once again welcoming us the locals and internationals that managed to travel. Great specials around country were on offer for the local market which saw an increase in domestic tourism that has helped keep many operators and conservation groups going. Though its not enough, the hope is we draw lessons from these 2 years and apply them in our 2022 strategies. Having travelled throughout the year to different locations, I can assure you of the great attention to COVID measures but also of the incredible places Zimbabwe has on offer. One of my favourite quotes by Jo Walton best describes how incredible our days in Zimbabwe are- “There’s a sunrise and a sunset every single day, and they’re absolutely free. Don’t miss so many of them”. Whether you are staying at a lodge or hotel, you’ve gone camping or just taken a drive down to a local lake or dam there will always be something incredible you find. This issue has been prepared and put together by our giddy selves, wrapped and packaged with love just for you! Allow us to take you on a magical and historical journey to Nantwich, one of Zimbabwes oldest camps. To the land of valleys and mountains as we visit a farm with character! Matusadona National Park and African Parks have something brewing and they share new developments with us. Not forgetting conservation, we visit an Elephant Sanctuary dedicated to elephant conservation and rehabilitation. And why not read up on birds from a qualified guide and enjoy some great bird spottings this season. Whatever your adventure this season, remember to share your stories with us! You can write to us or tag us on our social media platforms. We can’t wait to see what you’ve been upto. On behalf of the NZiRA team and its management, I would like to wish you an Amazing Christmas and a Glorious New Year! Rudo Nhamoinesu EDITOR’S NOTE If you want to be a part of the pathway to the next NZiRA issue, please contact us [email protected] PUBLISHER Mike Garden [email protected] +263 772 209 162 EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING Rudo Nhamoinesu [email protected] Tel: 024 2782720 DESIGN AND LAYOUT Tamuka Nyoni [email protected] +263 775 363 706 DISCLAIMER Whilst every effort is made to check the content of any article, the directors will not be held responsible for any errors or omissions in such articles. We accept that all articles and photographs sent to us are the sole responsibility of the authors and we do not accept liability for any misrepresentation. Events listed, the dates thereof, and prices are printed using information supplied to us that we are satisfied are correct at the time of printing. Nzira publication is the exclusive property of Ndeipi (Pvt) Ltd Media Use the QR code to visit our website for more articles. Nzira Cover Photo Contact us for subscriptions 024 2782720 On The Cover: A Sleeping Lion, Matusadona National Park Credit - Kelly Landry PRINTER Sable Press Unit 21-22 Bluffhill Industrial Park, Bluffhill, Harare Tel: 0242 331 637/8, 331654 InfoNzira nziramagazine Nzira From the Editor T Travel Zimbabwe www.nzira.co.zw
8 Issue 18 NZiRA Travel Zimbabwe istorical and cultural heritage has over the years contributed immensely towards tourism and cultural upliftment. The existence of a strong relationship between history and tourism brings with it a sense of natural inquisitiveness and interest among locals and tourists to an area. It is said that a visit to a historical destination promotes spiritual enrichment and outlook expansion. One such destination is Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe’s largest and oldest park. Once a royal hunting area for Mzilikazi, the Mthwakazi King in the 19th Century it has over the years transformed into a magnificent tourist destination that boasts of great wildlife sightings and incredible landscapes. The history of the area is reflected through its oldest established campsMain camp, Robins, and Nantwich. Nantwich in particular has just celebrated its 60th anniversary. A TRIP DOWN MEMORY LANE. The land was originally owned by Percy Crewe, a British National who came to then Southern Rhodesia in search of gold. After trying his hand at a few things, he became counsel to the then Ndebele King, Lobengula. Percy, a colourful character was well known for his attempts to ease tension Nantwich Lodge H Zimbabwe’s Historic Gem, Celebrating its 60 years NANTWICH LODGE Article - Rudo Nhamoinesu, NZiRA Magazine Images - Hideaways Group & Rudo Nhamoinesu
www.nzira.co.zw Issue 18 9 between the settlers and Lobengula. Although his efforts were in vain, the King showed his appreciation by rewarding Percy with land that later became known as Nantwich. This land, he chose to use as a farm and attempted sugarcane farming to no avail because of the climatic conditions in Hwange. After Percy died in 1961, thirty years after the fact, the land was repossessed by National Parks and turned into a camp. Originally built by National Parks as a satellite camp for Robins, which is located 15 km away, the camp consisted of the main house with a dining area and three bedrooms, and a little further away were 3, two bedroomed lodges. The main house was leased by Hwange Colliery as an executive retreat for the Hwange colliery company who then later took over its administration. After realising this as an unsustainable venture, a fire had also destroyed some parts of the buildings, they ended their lease and National Park’s took over in the early 2000s. A HIDEAWAY’S TAKEOVER The Hideaways group under Garth Jenman of Jenman Safaris took up the challenge of transforming this historic camp into a modern eco-lodge after it had been lying idle for years. Armed with a vision and fuelled by passion, Garth partnered with Tony Park, an Australian author and international bestseller who had spent 25 years of his life visiting Nantwich yearly. Tony, ‘a moving history book’ of the area combined his knowledge and Garth’s vast years of business experience in the tourism industry and together commenced reconstruction of the lodge in 2018. The original structures of the camp were maintained and reconstructed due to the damages caused by the fire. The concept behind this was to bring modernisation to the lodge while maintaining its historic feel. THE MAIN AREA Formally known as “Isilwane” (in Ndebele meaning lion), the main house was converted into the lodge’s main area which is marked by a colourful mosaic lion feature on the dining floor. The initial structure and wall design remain untouched, renovations have been done around this structure to include a modern equipped kitchen, a lounge, dining area, office, and library. The main area offers incredible views of the waterhole and plain, a great place to sit with a book or your binoculars and look out for the game that regularly visits the waterhole. Sightings of Cheetahs, Elephants, and Antelope are among the most recent. Sitting at the main area reminds you of just how special this safari experience is; you just have to sit back, sip on your cold drink and enjoy the game views. THE ROOMS Nantwich Lodge is one of the very few places in Hwange that offer brick and mortar lodging facilities. The solid NANTWICH LODGE A young cub from Percy’s pride
10 Issue 18 NZiRA Travel Zimbabwe brick structures are the original 2-bedroom lodges that have been reconstructed, paying homage to the old camp. A crisp contemporary design has been applied, borrowing pieces from the old structures creating a sublime fusion of history and contemporary luxury. The repurposed material, such as old window panes and old pipes have been reused as shower screens and towel rails giving the room a historic feel. Guests can choose to slumber in one of 9 thatched roof lodges, each accommodating 2 people, with 4 of these having connecting doors suitable for a family but still offering privacy. A honeymoon suite is also available. The rooms have an intimate serene feel to them and for a second you forget you are in the bush because of the amount of detail and work put into each room, from concrete finish floors to the lightweight curtains and African design pieces throughout the room. You can tell a lot of effort has been put into the ventilation and cooling system of each room. The use of fans, the thatch, and other cooling measures, are sure to keep guests cool during the Hwange summer days and nights. Each room leads out to a private patio facing the waterhole, where you can sit back, have your cooling refreshment as you wait and watch for wildlife. Each room comes with its private outdoor tub and shower- an absolute favourite of mine. Keeping to the Hideaways Ethos, the rooms are all sustainable and have little impact on the environment. Solar geysers are used as well as glass jars for your tea station. THE BAR AND POOL A stone’s throw away from the rooms is where the old laundry room was situated. This has now been reconstructed into the bar and pool area. The bar, now called “Vuvuka Arms” was named after Percy’s Ndebele Partner Vuvuka. A lady who was well known during her time for brewing the strongest traditional African beer (commonly known as 7 days), a favourite of Percy! Here, guests can enjoy a refreshing cold drink or beer any time of the day! This area offers incredible views of the plains. Currently there is a pool with a plan to turn it into an eco-pool. This pool will work on the concept of water cleansing. Plants remove nutrients, microorganisms keep NANTWICH LODGE The Vuvuka Bar and Pool Area A Grand Old Fig Tree
www.nzira.co.zw Issue 18 11 harmful bacteria in check, and pool filters remove detritus. Wildlife can drink from this with no harm to them. For privacy it has been sectioned away cleverly, allowing you to swim in your secluded area. ACTIVITIES Activities at the lodge include game drives and bush walks as this is a great walking area. The landscape and different water sources offer great photographic opportunities. With the large herds of game, this is big-cat territory. During my stay, on each game drive, we were fortunate to run into different Prides of Lion. Of note was the resident Pride, Percy’s Pride, named after the Nantwich founder consisting of 3 lionesses and 4 cubs. Large herds of Buffalo were always on the move and the antelopes seemingly ready to drop their young. Our guide Courage always ensured that our game drives were always so entertaining and informative. He always took time to take us through the surrounding flora and fauna. Our game drives would come to a stop at a beautiful spot perfect for that morning coffee or a sundowner. One of my favourite sundowner stops was at the Big Fig Tree, an incredibly large old tree that afforded us its shade as we shared laughs, stories, and life experiences over a drink while watching the sun go down. It is moments like these that stand as a reminder of just how incredible a day in Africa is. My Nantwich stay was nothing short of amazing. This intimate luxury lodge offers you comfortable lodging, great food, a different safari experience with views like no other place in Hwange, A big thank you to Garth, Tony, Nicola, Sullett, Courage and the whole Nantwich team for an amazing experience. NANTWICH LODGE The Boma
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www.nzira.co.zw Issue 18 13 t 22 years old I founded what is now a well-known wildlife rehabilitation and release centre based in Bulawayo Zimbabwe. Inspired purely by the lack of organisations in Zimbabwe that offered primate rescue and release. I wanted these animals to have an equal chance at life and to be free, most of these being orphaned due to human-wildlife conflict. Primates are most often classed as problem animals, persecuted for their destructive nature but they too deserve a chance of wildlife in the treetops. The Sanctuary started with an orphaned baboon who was promised freedom after her mother was shot, and it is now home to over 70 different rescued wild animals varying from primates to birds of prey and giraffe! Over the last 8 years, roughly 400 animals have found their way back into the Wild thanks to the dedicated Free to be Wild Sanctuary A Zimbabwe’s Primate Rescue Centre Article and Images - Baye Pigors ZIMBABWE’S PRIMATE RESCUE CENTRE
14 Issue 18 NZiRA Travel Zimbabwe found their way into the caring hands of the sanctuary where they underwent rehabilitation and rewilding process and formed their family troop that has currently been living successfully in the wild since June 2021. This troop release was a huge milestone as it has opened the door for many more primates that have previously been believed to not be able to be released due to human imprintation once orphaned and rescued. The sanctuary runs purely on donations from the general public. Since the devastating effects of Covid 19 the Free to be Wild team decided to open their doors in September 2021 over the weekends for private tours allowing the public, for the first time to see first-hand the work that this organization does. It has been a great pleasure educating people on the importance of our wildlife as well as the impact each one of us can make towards Mother Earth and her gift to us in the form of animals. It is with great thanks to the generosity, support, and kind-hearted individuals that allow us to continue the work we do saving wildlife in need and returning them to their rightful place back into the Wild. Every life, every species, counts! TOURS Our tour days and times are as follows: Saturday and Sunday 9 am, 11 am, 1 pm, 4 pm Pre-booking in advance is essential as we need to ensure a wildlife handler is on call for your tour, we are often out on wildlife rescue call-outs around the country. If you are unable to join us on the weekend please let us know and we will try to accommodate you during the week as best as we can in amongst our busy schedules. Along your tour you will get to meet various animal species some are permanent residents that can’t be released such as Terry the onewinged Vulture, Marlin the umbrella cockatoo, and our Bushbabies who will appreciate a banana treat. You will also get to see the process of our rehabilitation and release work through our primate camps that house over 20 different primates at the moment. Along the route you will bump into Mukwa and Acacia our baby giraffe and probably get a cuddle from Zimmi the baby zebra who loves to go on the bush walk with you. CHARGES $5 per adult $3 per child entry (children from 2yrs above). We do not keep change on the premises as we are not a commercial entity so bringing the right amount of money would be appreciated as not to cause any inconvenience to you. DURATION The tour can take anything from 45minutes to 1hr30 depending on how much time you choose to spend with the various animals along the way. Please note each tour slot is private to ensure minimal contact with other people. team at the sanctuary and the collaborative work with Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife. Each animal’s time at the sanctuary is dependent on species and how long it takes to rehabilitate and rewild them before they are ready to survive in the wild on their own. Primates take a lot longer as we are rebuilding family troops from scratch but other animals such as antelope can take up to a year from the time they are rescued to when they are released and each release is tailored to each animal as an individual. The rehabilitation process entails us teaching them how to be wild animals, feed and protect themselves, and encourage their natural behaviours enabling them to adapt to life in the wild. With our baboons, one of the processes is a daily bushwalk. Through this, they can learn all the instincts they will need to survive in the wild such as foraging for food and building correct muscle developments from natural movements like jumping from treetops. Our most recent release was of 17 vervet monkeys that had each been rescued over the last 4 years from dire situations all around Zimbabwe, these monkeys CONTACT DETAILS Baye Pigors +263 775 545 545 [email protected] Website : www.freetobewildsanctuary.com Facebook: free to be Wild Instagram: freetobewildsanctuary ZIMBABWE’S PRIMATE RESCUE CENTRE
www.nzira.co.zw Issue 18 15 DO GREAT THINGS EVERY DAY WE’LL DELIVER YOUR LICENCES TO YOUR DOORSTEP, ABSOLUTELY FREE! Buy or renew your third party insurance, ZINARA and ZBC radio licences. We’ll deliver to your home or office in Bulawayo or Harare at no extra cost. Dial *227# or Whatsapp “Hi” to 0777227227 to insure your vehicle today. • ISO 9001:2015 • Top rated Leading insurer (ZW) Terms and Conditions apply.
16 Issue 18 NZiRA Travel Zimbabwe Article - Eva Reid Images - Kelly Landry, Mana Meadows & African Parks atusadona National Park is one of Zimbabwe’s recent good news stories, where a partnership development between the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZPWMA) and the non-profit nature conservation organization African Parks provided an exciting progression in the tourism and conservation arena in Zimbabwe. The two organizations established a 20-year partnership in late 2019 and formed the Matusadona Conservation Trust (MCT). Together they are implementing management strategies to secure the park and restore wildlife populations, unlocking its ecological, social, and economic value and enabling communities to derive long-term benefits. African Parks and Matusadona M MATUSADONA NATIONAL PARK © Mana Meadows
www.nzira.co.zw Issue 18 17 to the far southern hills of Matusadona – creating a safe landscape that enables people and wildlife to benefit. The Tashinga headquarters, located in the western part of the park, has grown exponentially during this first year of operations. To ensure the park is well managed, a backbone structure of technical employees and a fleet of vehicles and heavy machinery is available and used to ensure roads are accessible and infrastructure is renovated or constructed by the Matusadona technical team. A new airplane is also providing ‘eyes in the sky’ to monitor activities MATUSADONA NATIONAL PARK in and around the National Park, feeding information directly down to the rangers on the ground. Alongside the management activities, elevating Matusadona as a significant wildlife tourism destination is moving more to the forefront. By increasing its commercial development, Matusadona can better contribute to Zimbabwe’s growing economy while simultaneously providing a sustainable source of benefits for local communities. To boost tourism activity and aid the restoration of the existing wildlife populations in the park, a large game translocation took place in August 2021 where 223 zebra were moved from Bubye Valley Conservancy to Matusadona National Park in a ground-breaking move. Dr. Fulton Mangwanya, DirectorGeneral of Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority stated, “We are facing extraordinary challenges given the pandemic, which has hit Zimbabwe at a time when our economy has been faced with climate shocks associated with drought and Cyclone Idai. But this translocation is a proactive measure and an important moment for conservation, wildlife, and tourism in our country. In collaboration with African Parks, we are taking bold measures to invest in the protection of our natural resources, which is one of the most cost-effective ways to mitigate climate change and prevent future pandemics, and importantly to ensure that the people who live around these critically needed wild areas can depend on them now, and long into the future.” The translocation was carried out over This extraordinary National Park on Lake Kariba is well known for its splendid fishing opportunities in the river systems and along the scenic shoreline of Matusadona. Elephants roam past your boat and graze alongside hippos and impala in the green grass of the lake’s edge and lions roaring in the background. The Matusadona Conservation Trust is working together with the local community and the fishing camps, to promote sustainable fishing practices, increase educational and employment opportunities in the region and develop smallscale grassroots enterprises. The organization has doubled its AntiPoaching capacity by employing and training an additional 33 rangers in early 2021 bringing the total to 62. These rangers are out in the park every day, and protect the entire area from illegal activities- from lakeshore © Kelly Landrey
18 Issue 18 NZiRA Travel Zimbabwe the course of three weeks, transporting 20-30 animals every two to three days by trucks from Bubye Valley Conservancy. The first 95 were released into the south of the park and the remaining 128 were released onto the valley floor after they were transferred from trucks to a purpose modified ferry across the lake to Matusadona in a complex and groundbreaking first. “This translocation showed how together with our Government partners and fellow conservation operators in Zimbabwe, we have been able to relocate these incredible animals to even the most inaccessible areas. While the move was not without difficulty, the tenacity and resolve of the teams and partners involved demonstrated what is possible”, said Rob Reid, Matusadona National Park’s Park Manager. The zebra were all kindly donated to Matusadona by the Bubye Valley Conservancy, which will allow for the growth of the zebra population in Zimbabwe and create ‘seedstock’ in a safe and protected National Park. For visitors, Matusadona National Park has a diversity of activities and accommodation options on offer. The park comprises 1,470 km2 and borders the Lake Kariba Recreational Park, with dozens of small bays in which you can always find a piece of privacy to enjoy the wonderful scenery. The avid fishermen can indulge in sustainable fishing opportunities and sunset boat cruises, while game walks and drives are on the cards for those keen to stay on the land. Those exploring the Sanyati gorge will be awed by its scenery and the waterfalls coming down into the river, especially in the wet season. The majority of the wildlife is concentrated on the open and grassy shoreline, with regular lion and leopard sightings. Roads that are being opened up in the park are revealing their secrets, wildlife sightings not seen in many years. Large herds of buffalos against a stunning Kariba sunset, and elephants swimming in the lake to cool down after a hot day: photographic opportunities galore. Matusadona is host to a variety of lodges and safari camps, largely concentrated in the eastern shoreline of the National Park. Spurwing lodge provides a bustling base for fishermen and a wonderful MATUSADONA NATIONAL PARK If you are interested in following what is happening in Matusadona National Park, follow them on Facebook (www.facebook.com/ MatusadonaNP ) or Instagram (www.instagram.com/ matusadonanationalpark) place to take the kids and enjoy the fenced-off green lawns. Changa Safari Camp is a unique boutique camp with absolutely splendid cuisine and a wonderful platform for game drives and walks up the nearby rivers. The newly built Fothergill Island is a treat for the eye and an incredible luxury product. The western end of the park hosts the tranquil Rhino Safari Camp, which is fantastic for walking safaris. For the keen 4x4 traveler, a beautiful shaded campsite is set up at Tashinga, highly suitable for families and children, with elephants roaming on its fringes. The Matusadona Conservation Trust is currently evaluating the tourism development potential for the park and we can expect exciting opportunities to develop over the next few years. © Kelly Landrey © Kelly Landrey
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20 Issue 18 NZiRA Travel Zimbabwe ver the years, running has become a part of my lifestyle. Its physical and mental benefits for me are enormous, I am always excited for a challenge, especially one that is for a worthwhile cause. Thus, when an opportunity came up to run in the 50th New York Marathon, I did not hesitate to put up my hand. The only catch was that I had to raise funds and awareness for the Zambezi Elephant Fund (ZEF). ZEF is dedicated to elephant conservation through work in the Zambezi Valley working with local authorities as well as a collaborative group of alliance partners to maintain a strong anti-poaching presence. Living in Harare’s Greystone Park allowed me to use the steep hills for some intense New York Marathon O Article & Images - Mike Garden NEW YORK MARATHON
www.nzira.co.zw Issue 18 21 training sessions. My love for running and conservation kept me going through it all preparing me both mentally and physically for the event. After a long flight over, I had sufficient time to recover from the inevitable jet-lag before heading downtown to the huge registration expo hosted by New Balance - my preferred running shoe. The race was set for the 7th of November with 33,000 other runners from all over the world. The latest style of New Balance shoes was introduced specifically for the New York Marathon and a suave saleslady convinced me to buy a pair as well as the mandatory T-Shirt! I found out that daylight saving had started during the night before the race meaning that all clocks were set back an hour. The race was set to start at 10:40 am but my pickup was 5:30 am from the New York library, leaving me with 6 long, cold hours from my wakeup time of 4:45 am to the start of the race. For my comfort, I bought a cheap cushion and blanket to sit on along with some old corduroy trousers and jersey to keep me warm. All of this was disposed of in a communal bin for distribution to the poor at the end of the race. I completed the race in a time of 4.47- two hours slower than my best but, hey!, one has to take into account “The ravages of age!” The fastest guy in my age group was a 68year old who sprinted around in 3hours 10 minutes. The crowd support was very special – fellow ZEF runner, Jos Janisch, and I had our names and Zimbabwe printed on our running T-Shirts. So many people turned out to show their support for us runners – there were constant screams of “Go Mike”, “Zimbabwe” and more importantly just “Babwe” from spectators that must have had some link with Zim. “You got this Mike” was repeated ad infinitum. One runs through the 5 major burrows starting on Staten Island and finishing 42k later in Central Park. Overall the race takes place on a flat course except for 3 major bridges that bring you quickly back to reality. Living at a higher altitude had its benefits for us. Having only run one complete marathon in the last 20 years, I was surprised to feel so good for the first 15km waving at the crowds and dancing alongside the many bands on the run. From then on my style of running went from a gliding Cheetah to a plodding Elephant finishing as a sad old Dagga Boy (Buffalo). The runners were divided into several different starts (waves) and Jos ran a couple of hours after me being privileged to view an awesome sunset coming into Central Park. A large number of participants were running for a cause – from cancer to autism and Alzheimer’s – we were, of course, running to create awareness for our Elephant population and their living environs. I would ask you kindly, therefore, to make a small ($10) contribution towards our goal. Running in one of the (Abbott) World major marathons should be something more people add to their lifelong “Bucket Lists” – great adventure along with the “Feel Good” benefits For me, it was all about the experience and what a day Sunday turned out to be! See you on the road, remember to give 2 Hoots! NEW YORK MARATHON
22 Issue 18 NZiRA Travel Zimbabwe Zambezi Elephant Fund (ZEF) co- founde r, Jo hn S t e v e ns a nd h i s grandchildren, Imogen and Max, are be wonderful Christmas gifts for the whole of Zimbabwe! But, best of all, every purchase you make will help ZEF with its support of our conservation partners in the Zambezi Valley. You can buy these Ts (and another baby elephant design by Keara Lee) at Bindu Media, 37 Victoria Drive, Newlands. Mike Garden ran the New York Marathon for ZEF last month! And now he has to cross the fundraising finish shirt today! (Elephant illustration by Brigette McNab) ALL I WANT FOR
www.nzira.co.zw Issue 18 23 Rhino Safari Camp is an intimate camp located on the edge of the Matusadona National Park, at the foot of the Matusadona Mountain Range, on the far side of Lake Kariba. This camp offers spectacular views of Lake Kariba, it is unfenced allowing the animals to wander freely. The camp has seven raised twin bed chalets that are on platforms made from fallen Mopani Trees. These chalets are well positioned, giving you access to uninterrupted spectacular views of the shoreline while enjoying close up encounters with animals that frequent the camp. The chalets are open fronted and receive the very cooling North-Easterly winds.The chalets are open fronted and receive the very cooling North-Easterly winds. The raised chalets ensure your safety, coupled with a few basic rules you are briefed on upon arrival. With the new partnership between African Parks and the Matusadona Conservation Trust, it was such a pleasure visiting the park and seeing the impact of the work underway. The fishing during our stay was excellent, this is because they have removed many of the illegal fishing nets. On our first day, we spent a relaxed couple of hours fishing in a little bay near the camp and brought back enough Bream for the whole camp to have a healthy snack whilst sitting around the campfire chatting before supper. In that part of the world Lion come and go and we heard (but never saw) a pride announcing their territory nearby in the middle of the night. The bathroom is Article - Mike Garden The All New Matusadona National Park Our Stay at Rhino Safari Camp RHINO SAFARI CAMP
24 Issue 18 NZiRA Travel Zimbabwe open plan with no roofing, allowing you to watch the stars as you take that evening shower after a long safari day. You can watch in awe the magnificent Milky Way up above, and if you are extra lucky, you can see that ever special shooting star. Rhino Safari Camp is one of those places that allow you the choice to personalise your safari day. You can choose to either just chill with a good book and wait for the animals to come by, or spot a few birds from the comfort of your seat, or you can go out on a boat or have a game drive either at daybreak or to watch the sun go down at the end of yet another peaceful day in Africa. On one afternoon our host, Peter Tetlow, took us on an afternoon Booze Cruise down the (Buzi) river flowing alongside the Tashinga National Park. Peter told us how the Buffalo have started returning to the area Contact T: 263 772 400 021, +263 772 205 000 E: [email protected] and we stopped to watch one large herd of 60+ browsing quietly on the banks nearby. During our stay, the crocodiles were laying eggs, and during one of our informative Safari days, we learnt that each female has her own patch of sandy soil where she lays her palm-size eggs 6 inches underground and then hangs around for 45 days waiting for them all to hatch. Peter showed us how to differentiate the female from the male by the former having a greener colour and a sloping forehead. Why don’t you take time out to experience true Zimbabwe outdoors this festive season! RHINO SAFARI CAMP
www.nzira.co.zw Issue 18 25 Pop In at 37 Victoria Drive and Buy A Book For All Age Groups [email protected] 0242 782 720 0771 715 804 CHRISTMAS GIFTS FOR YOUR CHILDREN
26 Issue 18 NZiRA Travel Zimbabwe s a frequent traveller, I have come to appreciate the trips characterised by warm hospitality, personal touch, and great attention to detail; aspects that create the ultimate guest experience worldwide. In Zimbabwe, we are fortunate to have establishments that do this just right. One such facility is 528 I Victoria Falls, a boutique guest house set 3km from the Rainforest. This idyllic Guest House offers you an escape from the city. From the moment you enter through the gates, you are transported to a private intimate destination set within beautifully landscaped and lush gardens; delightful smells that waft through the summer air, sounds of birds chirping and, water flowing from the water features create an oasis of sorts. As an exhausted traveller, coming to such a place, coupled with a warm reception, the experience revives you instantly! The Guest House is family-owned and run by a husband and wife team, Meredith and Paul Fischer. Armed with a dream and an investment opportunity, they transformed what was once a residential house into a luxurious lodging option for travellers to Victoria Falls. The Boutique Guest House is characterised by a Victoria Falls 528 A Article - Rudo Nhamoinesu, NZiRA Magazine Images - Rudo Nhamoinesu & 528 Victoria Falls 528 VICTORIA FALLS
www.nzira.co.zw Issue 18 27 unique architectural design, which is revealed along the pathway that meanders through gardens to the entrance and foyer; with a pond and water feature to one side and large glass doors and double height windows, the second and third floor of the house can be viewed, flooded with light from the entrance area which acts as a light well for the whole building. Meredith has a great love of art and design, by working with local designers and artisans, she created this oasis using vibrant colours and unique elements. The signature Ardmore Savuti wallpaper in the foyer has been inspired by Africa’s majestic flora and fauna, it makes use of vibrant colours that reflect African beauty, culture, and wildlife. These colours of green, yellow’s, orange’s and blues have such an encouraging effect and promote feelings of relaxation and tranquillity. The use of colour in the main foyer and main areas creates a harmonious and tranquil environment. Unique pieces such as the glass chandeliers add dazzle to the entrance foyer and main areas, real statement pieces. The multicoloured basket wall found in the dining area adds African elegance to the room, this one-of-a-kind wall is a great addition to the double height white wall and adds a pop of colour to the dining area. This quirky décor found throughout the Guest House is insta worthy and further elevated by the use of Natural light let in through the large windows, brightening the Guest House. The 3 storey building’s original structure consisted of 5 rooms, Meredith and Paul reconstructed the original rooms and added on making their total 7 unique rooms that include 2 triple rooms for families. A lot of effort has been put into the lodge, the hosts prioritise your experience, each room uniquely designed. The décor in my room consisted of black and white tile flooring that added elegance and sophistication with an accent pale green wall that calms the senses 528 VICTORIA FALLS
28 Issue 18 NZiRA Travel Zimbabwe bringing the room together. Each of the rooms comes with a king-size bed (extra length) and a Moroccaninspired headboard with intricate carved detail. The rooms are airconditioned, a welcome feature! Coming from Hwange hot and bothered, I was grateful for cooler temperatures in my room. I couldn’t wait to lie just for a moment on the comfortable mattress and plush pillows! The Fischer’s have gone an extra mile by offering guests sunblock curtains, a tea-making station, wifi, international charging sockets, and my favourite- Meredith’s homemade rusks. A little treat that brought me such joy! It is the attention to detail and the needs of the guests that make the rooms a little extra special. Each room comes with a walk-in shower. Equipped with a modern large rainfall shower head that make your shower experience feel as though you’re dancing in the rain. The design of the bathroom is simple, compact and, elegant, giving you just what you need. After a break and shower, I was excited to explore the rest of the Guest House. There is a grand stairway that leads to 2 different floors. Its modern appearance compliments the overall design of 528. Each floor oozes beautiful spaces and offers incredible views. As you continue your ascent, the last floor opens up to a bar, its décor a perfect blend of modern and African interiors while borrowing Moroccan elements such as the rug. The uniqueness of this décor again includes a pop of bright colours brought in through the lampshades made of African Ankara material, the blue tiling on the bar wall adds fun to the room and the bar area is intricately carved. The wooden flooring in the bar creates a different atmosphere from the rest of the lodge. The bar opens up to a patio with beautiful views of the surrounding trees, thus rendering its name- “Treetop Bar.” The modern furniture on the patio allows you to sit back and relax. An honesty system is used at the bar, you can mark what you have had and this will be added to your bill at the end of your stay. During the construction of the Guest House, environmentally conscious options were prioritised and included in early planning. 528 has solar power capacity (with backup generator) and solar geysers, greywater is recycled through a recycling system, this water is then used to water the gardens, a valuable fertilizer for plants, reconnecting the gardens to the natural water cycle. The Guest House also supports community initiatives such as Mummy’s Angels, an organisation that assists mothers in need by distributing preloved baby clothes and toys or goods. Help is given to select mothers at Chinotimba Clinic and Victoria Falls Hospital. The second organisation that is supported is Sewpportive Friends, an organisation that provides washable feminine hygiene products to girls in need, in Zimbabwe and Africa. During my stay I was fortunate enough to meet Julie who runs this organisation. Over breakfast, she shared her passion to keep girls in school by providing sanitary wear, ensuring they do not miss class and imparting sewing skills to women in the community of Chinotimba, Victoria Falls. These pads also support young girls in Hwange. Julie is just one of the many return guests to 528 on each visit to Zimbabwe. The hospitality and warmth of Paul and Meredith make one feel like part of the family. I greatly appreciated this about them, as a solo traveller it was nice sharing tales from my adventures with them. The Guest House operates on a bed and breakfast basis, but they can prepare lunch or dinners upon request. All food pallets and diets are catered for, prepared with fresh ingredients, and love! My absolute favourite was the 528 breakfast granola. Meredith was kind enough to share her recipe, a healthy treat to start up your day! The Guest House is conveniently located, right across the road is Reynardos Restaurant that specialises in pizzas and healthy salads. I wandered over to the Reynardos for my lunch and had the most absolutely delicious chicken salad! The intimacy of 528 allows Meredith and Paul to get to know their guests and as great hosts that are available to assist with any of your queries or needs. I highly recommend a stay at 528 when you next visit Victoria Falls! 528 VICTORIA FALLS
www.nzira.co.zw Issue 18 29 Granola 528 INGREDIENTS 4 Cups Oats 1 Cup pumpkin seeds ½ cup chia seeds ¾ / 1 tsp fine grain salt 2 tsp cinnamon ½ cup vegetable oil ½ cup maple syrup or honey 3 tablespoon vanilla extract 2/3 cup dried cranberries (add at end). DIRECTIONS 1. Pre-Heat oven to 180°. 2. Combine dry ingredients in pan. 3. Pour in wet ingredients. 4. Stir occasionally while cooking. 5. Add Fruit at the end once removed from oven. GRANOLA RECIPE
30 Issue 18 NZiRA Travel Zimbabwe have entitled this article, ‘When to Start’ because it is a very pertinent question my husband Garth and I, had to ask ourselves before we began this journey with Froggy Farm. In our mid (to late) 30’s, with absolutely no experience in farming, hospitality, or jam making, it was a seriously daunting decision. But the best advice I have received to date is ‘start before your ready….because you will never be ready.’ I also believe it is a pertinent question that each one of us needs to ask ourselves, ‘when do you start living the life you want to live?’ I have just listened to a wonderful podcast that was interviewing the well-known, author and photographer Brandon Stanton. Something that struck me with what he said was, ‘You can’t wait for an idea to be perfect, or wait to have enough confidence, because those things don’t come from waiting. Confidence is not born in you it is grown. Trust you will become the person you need to be and that the idea will become what it needs to be along the way.’ That’s where you begin, that’s how you ‘start’. THE ‘START’ Jumping back to our Froggy Farm story I have written a few times about where we began, but I will give you the short version here. Our family was hit very badly by COVID, living and working in the tourism town, Victoria Falls. I am a photographer by trade, Garth, my husband was in the tourism industry, and in a flash, all my work was cancelled and his salary drastically cut. Both of us were very established in our careers, our friendships, our eldest son going to a lovely school, and we were about to start building on a property we had there. Overnight our world was completely shattered, turned upside down, and spat out into a ball of panic and confusion, ‘What the bleep Article and Images - Lesanne Fowler When to Start I Our Froggy Farm Journey OUR FROGGY FARM JOURNEY
www.nzira.co.zw Issue 18 31 rubbed his eyes and just said, ’nauseous’. I burst out laughing, ‘well too late to turn back now!’ Each task we took on in small increments, and by no means are we anywhere close to being done but I believe as long as you can take baby steps you are moving forward and closer to the dream; the bigger picture. There are five aspects to our farm. The farm itself, the cafe, the store, the flowers, and the preserves distribution. THE FARM The farm has a few rows of existing proteas that we sell, but we are planting two more hectares of various varieties (Would you like to add more on the varieties people can expect?). Our beautiful flower bunches are now sold at the Fresh and Wild Florist (inside Queen of Hearts), which can be ordered and purchased every Wednesday! We also have a community project which we are working on called, ‘Froggy Farm Outgrower Program’ (FFOP) where we work with the surrounding small-scale farmers to take their flowers to market. This is a very exciting initiative that Zimflora started in the ’90s and I think is essential for the future of farming in this country. THE CAFÉ For our next project, we converted a container into a café. This was a journey on its own! We had bought a container in SA which arrived in Harare just before we moved onto Froggy. Packed full of all our belongings, furniture, and even Garth’s motorbike, it landed on the farm a few days later. We thought we would save money and use jacks to get it from the truck onto the ground, this was a grave mistake! It took 2 days to slowly edge it down on the jacks, nearly completely toppling over a few times. This was also in the pouring rain and sludgy mud! We finally managed to put it onto brick plinths and it was stable! It took a few months to convert the container. You look at pics on Pinterest that make it seem so simple and easy, well believe me it is not! We had to install a kitchen, build a deck, pizza oven, put in ceilings, clad the container walls, never mind the water, electricity, insulation! A lot of work but to Garths credit he was incredible in making that container OUR FROGGY FARM JOURNEY are we going to do now!?’ The first thing we did, was to stay openminded. Open to life, open to opportunity, open to change, and with this came all three of those at once. An opportunity to change our lives! The question was, were we going to take it?’ A series of serendipitous events brought us to stumble upon this dilapidated farm with a tiny farm store, a house that was falling apart, in the middle of nowhere. But, both of us saw through all of that and knew this was the opportunity we had been looking for! Of course, then comes the insecurity and the doubt, ‘we have never farmed before, we don’t have the money, the resources, can we actually do this!?’ Before we signed the lease, for a month we tried to get funding with no takers. We debated what we could do with the farm, the best thing to grow, etc etc etc. Until we eventually realised we will never know any of this, we will never get any experience and we will never get any funding if we don’t just start. So we did, we jumped in the deep end, sold what we had of worth, and on the 6th of December (year?) arrived with our 2 boys, a puppy, and no clue what we were doing! I will never forget asking Garth as we went to bed that first night, how are you feeling? He looked up at the ceiling
32 Issue 18 NZiRA Travel Zimbabwe managed to get a great team of staff, who do a fantastic job at the Cafe! We have been told a few times that our pizzas are ’the best in the country, which we are immensely proud of! NOEL’S STORE Our store side is run by the fantastic, notorious and oh so glorious, ‘Noel’. We have recently called it ’Noels Store’, as he is the face and the horsepower behind this little gem, and honestly does such a wonderful job of keeping it going. Even if you do get randomly shouted at and told come to life. We decided it would be a good idea to open on the busiest weekend possible, Easter. Another dive into the deep, deep, deep end! We had no help except our poor family who had come to visit us for the holiday and my one amazing friend Sara from Vic Falls who saved the day! On the opening day, however, it was just Garth and me, making…. everything. Coffees, pizzas, toasties, milkshakes, we could never have anticipated how busy we would get. I remember standing at the till when a big family came in ordering 6 milkshakes, 4 coffees, 5 toasties, and 2 pizzas. I smiled politely saying ‘sure’ through gritted teeth. I ran into the back of the kitchen and said to Garth ‘How the bleep do you make a milkshake!?’ I used nearly two tubs of ice cream to make those milkshakes, think we made a massive loss, but they loved them! (As I’m sure they would for what they got!) As time has gone on, we have to write your own invoice! Froggy Farm has always made great jams and preserves, so this side of the business we were able to continue, improve and expand the range. We now offer jams, chutneys, chilli (this is our best seller), pesto, hummus, infused olive oil, and tomato sauce (the homemade base we use for our pizzas). Next year we hope to introduce more to the range and are forever getting inspired in this information age! Currently, our preserves are sold at Noel’s store, Harare, Marondera, Mutare, Bulawayo, and soon Vic Falls! We have also converted a horse box into the ‘Froggy Farm Coffee Box’, which is based at Worlds View. There we sell coffee, tea, snacks and on busy weekends some hot food as well! HERE’S TO STARTING! Jump forward to nearly a year of being here, and wow, what a beautiful crazy ride it has been. Many ups and downs, overwhelming moments, lots of laughter, some tears, flickers of doubt, but most of all this unshakable feeling of achievement. Even if tomorrow everything falls apart, we will forever be proud of ourselves for taking this risk, for believing in ourselves, for just….starting. Have a beautiful festive season everyone, and we look forward to having you at Froggy Farm OUR FROGGY FARM JOURNEY
www.nzira.co.zw Issue 18 33
34 Issue 18 NZiRA Travel Zimbabwe ooking for a tough new SUV that ticks all the boxes? The bold new Isuzu Mu-X is here to shake up the SUV landscape. Scheduled for launch in early 2022, Autoworld Zimbabwe is ready to deliver you a vehicle that is already stirring up a lot of excitement around the world. The new Mu-X will enable you to conquer the harshest of landscapes as well as grace the city’s roads with presence, power, and elegance. Having executed another amazing transformation, Isuzu’s new Mu-X is primed to make waves in the highly L Bred to be Bold The all-new Isuzu Mu-X BRED TO BE BOLD Article and Images - Autoworld Zimbabwe
www.nzira.co.zw Issue 18 35 BRED TO BE BOLD competitive mid-size SUV segment locally, giving the Toyota Fortuner, Ford Everest, and Mitsubishi Pajero a good run for their money. EXTERIOR The new mu-X has adopted a more modern and sleeker look when compared to its predecessor. Everything is proportionately installed. The front fascia looks sharper and bolder with slim bi-LED headlamps and a new signature grille design. The higher trim levels are equipped with LED fog lamps, which now sit lower than the previous model. The sides of the vehicle are particularly eye-catching. Its doors are redesigned, completing the bolder character line that sweeps across the vehicle. The fenders are smaller this time around, while the wheels on the top-of-the-range model are larger at 20 inches in diameter. Rounding out the side profile are chrome trim pieces in the windows and side steps. The rear of the car looks clean and tough, featuring a more prominent Isuzu badge flanked by sharp LED taillights. A power tailgate is an option for the rangetopping variants. Overall, the new mu-X features a sportier stance with better proportions than the outgoing model. INTERIOR AND TECHNOLOGY As you enter the cockpit you will notice a refreshed interior, similar to that of the new D-MAX, set to launch later in 2022. Drivers are treated to an updated leather-wrapped steering wheel with added control buttons. There’s also a new 7-inch multiinformation display tucked between analog gauges. The infotainment system looks astrophysical, with the top-of-therange model boasting a standard 9-inch touchscreen display with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, AUX, and USB capabilities. You get either 6 or 8 speakers, depending on the variant. There’s also a cubby hole for storing your smartphone. Isuzu has done a praiseworthy job with upping the build quality of the new mu-X. The leather upholstery in the higher models looks premium, while shiny plastics are tastefully placed and kept to a minimum. Cabin space is maximized with smart and practical storage solutions. The mu-X still seats seven, and averagesized folk will have no trouble finding space in the third row for longer trips. Whichever variant you get, the mu-X boasts quality Japanese engineering that you have always admired. SAFETY As for safety features, all models are equipped with electronic brakeforce distribution, brake assist, a brake override system, electronic stability control, traction control, hill start assist, hill descent control, and airbags all around. The higher-spec models are also equipped with Isuzu’s Intelligent Driver Assist System (IDAS). The system includes adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, autonomous emergency braking, turn-assist, pedal misapplication mitigation, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a manual speed limiter. Parking is more convenient thanks to a parking aid and dynamic reverse camera, with the guidelines now moving intuitively with the wheel position. There’s also a multi-collision brake system for post-crash safety. The wide range of safety features earns the new 2022 Isuzu Mu-X a 5-star rating from the ASEAN NCAP. POWER Isuzu still gives you a lot of bang for your buck. A 3.0-litre turbo-diesel engine making 140kW and 450 Nm of torque is mounted to the chassis of this sublime SUV, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The 3.0-liter 4x4 models have a towing capacity of up to 3,500 kg. While the 4x4 variants will satisfy offroading enthusiasts, we think the 4x2 models will be just as popular here in Zimbabwe. For more information contact us using the following details: 24 Silwood Close, Chisipite, Harare, +263 8677 004 334, +263 772 148 738, [email protected]
36 Issue 18 NZiRA Travel Zimbabwe ould you consider yourself a birder, a nonbirder, or have you never thought about it? Do you need help deciding on a new hobby? Bird watching doesn't have to include the khaki waistcoats, fanny packs, and massive binoculars. Birding has become a fast favourite hobby for many people, so why not consider going on a birding safari, or adding some birding to your next safari. Need more convincing? I will go further, we'll make a Twitcher of you soon! Zimbabwe boasts more than 650 species of birds, all in their different habitats scattered across the country. Though we have no endemic species (only found in Zimbabwe). We do share some special species with our neighbours. You can go to the dry mopane woodlands in Hwange and watch a Common Waxbill bouncing in the shrubbery above a resting lion, or you could head over to the floodplains of Mana Pools to observe African Spoonbills or African Skimmers raking through muddy pools looking for their next meal. In the East, you may find a Gorgeous Bush-Shrike hoping amongst branches or Malachite Sunbird hovering skillfully over a Protea. Birding Safaris in Zimbabwe W BIRDING SAFARIS Article and Images - Siraaj Gardner Pygmy Goose Narina Trogon Cut Throat Finch
www.nzira.co.zw Issue 18 37 As another option, the home birder in Harare could drive a short distance to watch a Spotted Creeper scratch around in the branches at Mukuvisi. There is so much potential in Zimbabwe for a great birding trip. Ticking off "lifers" is great, but there are so many more benefits to birding too. It is so rewarding to watch a bird make its nest, or raise its chicks. It's a fun activity for a group to do together and can become quite competitive. Get the kids involved and have fun learning different species and their calls. The time spent observing life in the bush is invaluable and many birders have told stories of looking for an LBJ and then noticing a leopard sitting quietly close by. You can bird any time of the year, and see different species in different seasons. During Zimbabwe's rainy season many of the migratory birds arrive in time for the abundance of insects and to nest. Carmine Bee-eaters are the September colours— the crimson streaks that stretch across the blue sky. They arrive and start flocking the sky, snatching up the bees and insects flying past. They dig their nests into the banks of the Zambezi and will raise their chicks in time to fly North at the end of the rains. The elusive African Pitta flies by night and arrives at his "Summer home" with a few days to prepare for his mate to arrive. After calling from the tops of busy trees his mate will arrive and they settle down in the thick bush to build their messy nest in the same location every year. Amur Falcons flock to prey on flying ants and termites while White Storks arrive after a long flight from Europe. Your bird list will grow quickly when you bird over November to February! What do you need to start birding? The most important reference you can use while birding for the tricky species is a good bird book. There are many to choose from but I'd recommend Roberts Bird Book or App. You can make several lists on the bird app for your different destinations and I find the info included in the Roberts App is very in detail and informative. To see the distant birds, you will need a pair of good binoculars. Of course, binoculars depend on the budget, but if you can invest in a good set of binoculars you'll never go back. I would recommend 8 x 42 size Binos for good clarity and distance viewing. How to start birding? If you're a beginner, start practicing in your garden with the birds you see. Look at the overall shape of the bird. Is it a runner or a flier or a songbird or a raptor? What shape is its beak? Does it eat seeds or peck at insects, maybe it plucks worms and caterpillars out of holes in wood? Look at colours. Sometimes the difference between two species of birds is how long the gape of the beak passes behind the eye, or how far a colour spreads on a bird's head. Once you have got your garden birds down pat you can start expanding to secluded zones in and around the city you're in. You may have a vlei or River close to your house where you can find new species. When you feel you're ready to go on a birding safari, start by looking at what area you'd like to go to? Would you like to see animals as well as birds? Hiring a birding guide can be invaluable if you're not so comfortable with your knowledge yet. The most important part of birding is having fun and taking the time to appreciate nature and this beautiful habitat on our doorstep. If I haven't convinced you to take up birding as a hobby, you're missing out! Not many hobbies will get you exploring your country and noticing the little things in front of you. BIRDING SAFARIS Livingstone’s Fly Catcher African Pitta ANeed a Birding Guide? [email protected] Siraaj Gardner 0773287928
38 Issue 18 NZiRA Travel Zimbabwe COLOURING INSIDE THE LINES 38 Issue 18 NZiRA Travel Zimbabwe
www.nzira.co.zw Issue 18 39 his article is a difficult one to write. I’ve struggled with what to say and how to communicate it. I want to try and talk about creativity as a photographer. In particular, I want to talk about how I as a photographer approach taking photos. So, take this not as a general talk about creativity. But rather my philosophy about it at the moment. A lot of people think of creativity as this unchained thing. It doesn’t help how we describe creativity either. When you say things like WILD imagination it gives the idea that it is something that cannot be tamed and people in the arts are just “going with the wind” whenever they work. The truth however is creativity operates in constraints. Creativity that isn’t reigned in is just noise. Photos, movies, and paintings are all constrained to a small window for viewing. We as artists have to figure out how best to tell the story we want to tell within that small window. Within that constraint. I’ve always been amused at the way the term “Creative problem solving” is used in business. Because that’s all creativity is, creative problemsolving. The problem is the constraint. Creativity, is how you overcome it to communicate. Sometimes the constraint Article and Images - Zash Chinhara Colouring inside the Lines T My Photographic View of Harare COLOURING INSIDE THE LINES
40 Issue 18 NZiRA Travel Zimbabwe doesn’t hold back creativity but instead breeds it. Maybe I can explain it best by explaining some of my recent work. For the last few years, the city of Harare has been a personal project of mine. I started with a very arrogant goal. I wanted to tell the story of this city I loved with imagery. A deep story that would show the historical, architectural, and cultural nuances of the city in a way that would surprise even long-term residents of the town. I went out convinced that this was an easy task. I had a unique visual voice. I had a natural curiosity that led me down paths others might not take. I was the man for this mission. Alas. This is a hard story to tell, because the story of Harare isn’t an easily explained story. A city of over 1.5 million people could never have one simple story. As I tried to tell the story from one perspective, I would find that I couldn’t fully speak about one story without delving into another seemingly unrelated story. Then that story would unfold into even more rabbit holes. The more I took photos the more the hundreds if not thousands of interconnected stories of Harare revealed themselves. It was a wild project that I was having great difficulty taming. See, when you take a photo, one’s instinct is to put as much info as one can into it. When you do that though, you’ll quickly find out this is the best way to make a mess. Less is more. Figuring what to leave out is just as important as figuring out what you want to put in. So attempting to take on an entire city… Maybe now you can see the arrogance of my initial idea. What I needed was more constraints in my original idea. I started shooting my wife and our friends in our city. I started with stories I knew. I didn’t try and reach for anything lofty. I just showed how a few of us interacted with the city. I stopped trying to tell this grand educational story and instead, much more humbly, I started to explore. Instead of trying to digest the city in giant bites. I would take small bite-sized helpings of the city. Pictures of the tuck shops on Cameron street, the hand-painted advertising on walls, a small shoe shop near an alleyway. And I realized something interesting once I put this constraint on myself. I started learning the things I needed to know for the original grand project I had. I learned about old textile districts and how businesses moved in the city. I saw more things I wanted to learn stories about. I approached the city as someone learning about a new friend, rather than a professor collating data for a research paper. The grand view made me take on a clinical approach, but when I put constraints on my work, my creativity grew. It seems counterintuitive to suggest that you need to constrain yourself to be creative. But for me, at this moment, it is proving to be true. I’m not saying it always works but sometimes embracing the limits you have leads you to wonderful places. When you make them your friends rather than enemies, your thinking changes about so much more and you might find a new perspective. A window that you once thought was a wall. It certainly changed my view of Harare. COLOURING INSIDE THE LINES
Stay Afrique Hotel 5 Reynolds Drive, Barham Green, Email: [email protected] Calls: +263 776 998 306 / +263 467 598 www.stayafriquehotels.com *Air conditioned ensuite rooms *Clean bedding-white linen *Room fridges *24 hour guarded car park *Restaurant on site *Free Wi-fi *DSTV-numerous channels *Room coffee and tea station *Room amenities-lotion, soap and gels *Complimentary bottled water *Room service for 16 hours *Numerous lounging areas *Serene landscaped gardens for relaxation *Private braai facilities for use by guests *Sparkling swimming pool for guests Always nice everytime Bulawayo *2021 Edition 1
42 Issue 18 NZiRA Travel Zimbabwe MISS EARTH ZIMBABWE Article - Jemima Mandemwa Miss Earth Zimbabwe My Small Step Towards a Better Planet
www.nzira.co.zw Issue 18 43 nvironmental sustainability is a passion of mine. I believe in the responsibility we have as individuals towards our planet and conserving its health, this in turn rewards us with clean air, fresh water, and places that are toxic-free. It is this passion to conserve natural resources and protect ecosystems that led me to take up the opportunity to participate in Miss Earth, a pageant that advocates for environmental awareness, conservation, and social responsibility. As the reigning Miss Earth for Zimbabwe, I have used this platform to work with young girls around the country, raising awareness of social issues such as Gender-Based Violence (GBV), mental health, child marriages, etc. This has been successful in positively impacting the lives of young girls, providing them a platform to share their opinions and their voice. Earlier this year, I set up an online environmental movement with aim of reminding individuals in our country and around the world of the need to be eco-aware individuals. Through the use of my online social platforms, I have shared information on the current climatic crisis and its impacts that include increased wildfires, health impacts due to heat, reduced agricultural yields, and the impact of this on our social lives. Under this movement, we share and encourage eco-friendly practices which can be in our homes, school, or places of business making one small step towards a greener environment. Practices such as recycling, solar energy, home gardens, or simple things like switching off the lights when not in use make a huge difference. I aim to assist in creating and developing eco-mindsets among people and using social networks to do this. In working with schools, I hope that we will be able to introduce Environmental Sustainability as a club, I believe this will help in molding the younger generation’s understanding of our planet enabling the student’s active involvement. I have also been working with the Forestry Commission of Zimbabwe in Lupane, an area situated in Matabeleland North that has struggled with firewood poaching. Here, as a team, we will be working on tree planting initiatives that will hopefully replenish the orchards and forest fields in schools and farms within the province, while educating the locals of the benefits associated with tree planting to their livelihood. I have challenged myself for the next 5 years to engage participants in the sustainability and conservation of our environment. In everything, l do, l use education as a significant tool to bring awareness to environmental care a project that will hopefully ensure Zimbabwe contributes its significant part towards reading the 2030 sustainable development goals. I hope you too take this stance and go green. Remember the little practices go a long way! MISS EARTH ZIMBABWE E
44 Issue 18 NZiRA Travel Zimbabwe Article & Images - Duckworth Meltonka Basketware MELTONKA BASKETWARE
www.nzira.co.zw Issue 18 45 or Mel collecting artefacts and basketware pieces from around Africa was a hobby, and a fun way to bring the African culture into her home. After frequently being asked where the beautiful pieces she had were from; the idea of Meltonka was formed. Meltonka was now a place where Mel could share her love for quintessential rustic décor; mainly focusing on basketware Thus, Meltonka’s artefact and basketware designs are entirely African, with the majority being native to Zimbabwe. Each piece in the Meltonka collection is handcrafted from start to finish by local men and women, ensuring each piece is 100% traditionally authentic as well as locally supported and sustainable. All the materials used in the Meltonka Range are responsibly sourced. These include llala Palm, Malawi Cane, bamboo, and recycled plastic. With weaving being such a great skill Meltonka has been able to assist in training more local people to weave and to earn a living. Meltonka also supports many other weaving clubs/communities around Africa to get a variety of basketware products to add to the collection. Basketware has become extremely fashionable throughout the world, but what sets us apart from the rest, is that Meltonka pieces are designed to allow you to keep your style and is an economical way to add a touch of ethnicity to any space. Customised Meltonka items are available too, the skilled weaving team can make to order from your very own design. Meltonka has grown from strength to strength as people discover how versatile and useable our products are. If you would like to follow Meltonka and see all the exciting new products please use: Instagram: meltonka_ Facebook: Meltonka Artefacts & Basketware F
46 Issue 18 NZiRA Travel Zimbabwe fifffflffifffl fifffflffiflffiflffiflff fifl fifffflffiflfflfi ffl ffi I had a lump in my throat as I read this difficult but important book. It is enlightening to read an honest account of what went on behind the scenes It was possibly one of the best and most comprehensive books on war.. flfl ‘Congratulations, again on this very important book. Over all I think this is a great work, beautifully presented.’ This is a brilliant, absorbing book and I am learning so much.’ Visit 37 Victoria Drive, Newlands, Harare to buy a copy
www.nzira.co.zw Issue 18 47 Africa is home to a wide variety of fauna, our various sandy woodlands, grasslands, and wetlands allow for different species to thrive. Conservation in Africa is key in maintaining and supporting wildlife such as the Elephant. As the largest land mammal, they pave the way for smaller species to co-exist by trampling forests and dense grasslands. Although the largest, they are one of the most poached animals to date. In Zimbabwe several groups have prioritised Elephant conservation, forming anti-poaching units and rehabilitation centres. Wild Horizons is one such group that has stepped up to the challenge, with sustainability and conservation at the forefront of their ethos, they have built a place that caters to injured, old, orphaned, or retired Elephants. ZENZO AND THE ELEPHANT SANCTUARY HISTORY During my stay in Victoria Falls, I had the pleasure of visiting Elephants Camp where the sanctuary is located, and spent an informative afternoon with Zenzo Sibanda, the Elephant manager who is fondly referred to as “one of the Ellies”. The Elephant Sanctuary has a long and interesting history which Zenzo is a part of. In the 1980s a culling operation was done in Hwange National Park, to reduce the Elephant population in the area. During this time, large herds were taken out leaving young orphans that were sold off to circuses, zoos, and individuals Article & Images - Rudo Nhamoinesu, NZiRA Magazine Adventuring with Wild Horizons Elephant Orphanage & Sanctuary ADVENTURING WITH WILD HORIZONS
48 Issue 18 NZiRA Travel Zimbabwe around the country mostly on farms. At this time, Zenzo was a young boy living on a commercial farm where his father worked as a tractor driver, his life’s turning point was at the age of 8 which he recalls quite vividly- the owner of the farm had purchased 4 Elephants, these were being offloaded while young Zenzo looked on wide-eyed full of intrigue, excitement and a tad bit nervous. Zenzo approached the Elephants and went on to form an interesting bond with Miz Ellie, Jumbo, Jock, and Jack. His love for these Elephants grew. From being afraid of their trunks to playing a game of tug of war and having them as his childhood friends! During the Farm relocations and readministration in the ‘90s, most farms that had bought young Elephants were not in the capacity to continue catering for these gentle giants and it was in 1994 that the Wild Horizons Group and their Jijima Camp in Hwange was identified as the perfect location to rehome these Elephants. The Jijima camp offered great landscapes, incredible vegetation, and pristine wilderness making this a great place to rehome the Elephants. Given their conservation drive, Wild Horizons took up this challenge starting with what they refer to as the original 4- Miz Ellie, Jumbo, Jock, and Jack. And at 17 years, Zenzo became part of the wild horizons group along with his 4 friends. I guess one can say he became part of Wild Horizon’s Big 5! Upon receiving more enquiries for rehoming and assisting elephants, the Wild Horizons group decided to ADVENTURING WITH WILD HORIZONS
www.nzira.co.zw Issue 18 49 build a safer and more permanent haven for these mammals with plenty of space to roam, and the idea of Elephant Camp was born. The intention was to create a space where humans could live in harmony with nature in a luxurious camp setting while interacting with elephants and understanding the work being done which contributes to the conservation and delivery of healthy ecosystems. The new location of Elephants Camp was 250 km from Jijima, Hwange, and just 15km from Victoria Falls town. The translocation of the Elephants from Jijima to Victoria Falls was in May 1995, done over 6 day’s on foot with periodic stops during the night to camp. Being such intelligent animals and having become accustomed to Zenzo and the team, they would go off to forage for food and make their way back to their lie with their keepers for the night. THE SANCTUARY: PRESENT DAY HERD The Sanctuary that started with just 4 Elephants currently stands at 17 which is dived into 3 herds; 2 groups of 5 and 1 group of 7. They have 3 bulls Jumbo and Jock of the original 4 and a young bull Pfumo. Over the years their largest group has been 27 Elephants on the property. The elephants have access to highly skilled keepers, veterinary care, and acres of land with great woodland suitable for their foraging needs. Jack, the third of the original 4, was released into the Zambezi National Park, his tracker has since been removed and he is living freely as a wild bull. SOFT RELEASE PROGRAM The sanctuary is currently running a soft release program. This is a program that gradually introduces Elephants to a new environment where they learn skills needed for survival in the wild. At the moment the soft release group is led by Miz Ellie, the matriarch of the herd along with 4 orphaned elephants that accepted her as their mother. Due to a failed pregnancy in 2009 and an Episiotomy surgery performed over 5 hours to remove her dead calf, Miz Ellie is unable to bear any calves of her own. She received another chance at motherhood with these 4 young ones. The duration of the release program depends on various factors; one such factor is location. Finding a suitable right location is paramount. There are difficulties in releasing into the National Park such as the Villages surrounding the Park and because these elephants are used to human interaction the inclination to wander over to a human is high and this may result in human/animal conflict. Jack, one of the bulls from the original big 4 was released into the National Park and has been thriving as a wild bull. TRAINING The sanctuary has a dedicated team of Elephant keepers and guides led by Zenzo that work around the clock, all year long ensuring that the Elephants receive the best care possible. Their keepers go through intense training on conservation and elephant welfare to understand the animal’s needs. Training also involves gaining trust between the keepers and the Elephants, which takes time to establish. The training is also based on positive reinforcement. For every command executed they are rewarded with pellets. INTERACTIONS Under the Wild Horizons group, you can book for an Elephant encounter. This excursion involves meeting Zenzo and the team, learning about conservation and elephant education on one of the herds. It is open to anyone through their booking office. If you are not staying at Elephants ADVENTURING WITH WILD HORIZONS
50 Issue 18 NZiRA Travel Zimbabwe Camp, you are picked up by one of their dedicated members from your accommodation facility and taken to Elephants Camp, and there, welcomed with a refreshing cool drink (a necessity in this hot weather!) and Zenzo. He shares his grand knowledge and history with you as you are taken down to meet the herd. For me, the interaction was an incredible experience, which included learning the history of the sanctuary to being able to feel safe and comfortable beside these great giants. I met the herd Jumbo is a part of, which consists of 3 generations. The herd is led by Tendai, who is a 34-year-old female along with her 2 daughters, Thembi and Ntombi. Thembi has a daughter with Jumbo- Simangaliso meaning If you would like to book a visit to visit Elephants Camp and the Sanctuary, volunteer, or donate please contact the reservations team on +263 (213) – 2844571, 2844426, 2842313, 2842029 [email protected] The Elephant Camp Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe surprise! Therefore, Jumbo lives with his mother-in-law Tendai. It is so interesting how these herds have a proper family unit each with a unique story. Amos Shoko one of the guides took me through the interaction, at the end, you realise just how this goes beyond being a job but rather a way of life for these gentlemen. They work tirelessly to give these Elephants the life they deserve, a selfless act of dedicating their time, knowledge, and efforts. Meeting the herd and its dedicated keepers was the highlight of my trip. Being in such proximity and learning the differences between the elephants and feeling their skin, brought me such joy. I was also taught a few commands by Amos which I applied my favourite being, “Trunk Up,” and rewarding the elephant with their pellets. My experience was nothing short of amazing and I do recommend a visit to the sanctuary and for you to play your part in raising awareness of issues relating to Animal Conservation. Thank you to the Wild Horizons Team for having me!! ADVENTURING WITH WILD HORIZONS