Zambia Wildlife Authority Director General relieved of his duties

In reports in the media this week, we were informed that Sylvia Masebo, Minister of Tourism, has dropped the Director General, Edwin Matokwani, and four directors from the Zambia Wildlife Authority (Z

In reports in the media this week, we were informed that Sylvia Masebo, Minister of Tourism, has dropped the Director General, Edwin Matokwani, and four directors from the Zambia Wildlife Authority (ZAWA).

Five top officials at the Zambia Wildlife Authority, including Director General Edwin Matokwani, have been fired on allegations of corruption in the awarding of hunting safari concessions to some companies, according to the Zambian Eye. Police had, by press time, sealed off ZAWA offices in Chilanga.

Minister of Tourism and Arts Sylvia Masebo said the government has also directed ZAWA to cancel and nullify the whole tender for the granting of safari hunting concessions. Ms. Masebo said during a media briefing yesterday that the matter has been referred to relevant investigative wings of government for further investigations and possible prosecution. Others relieved of their duties are Conservation Acting Director Melody Zeko, Commercial Acting Director Rose Chivumba, Finance Acting Director Andrew Sampa, and Head of Procurement Taulino Banda.

Ms. Masebo said Government has appointed an interim management team for administrative purposes and that the appointment of the ZAWA board is also being expedited.

In the Post, it was reported that Tourism Minister Sylvia Masebo said Zambia’s wild animals were being airlifted out of the country without the knowledge of the state. Justifying the dismissal of Zambia Wildlife Authority (ZAWA) Director General Edwin Matokwani and four others, Masebo yesterday said she would ensure she takes the best action so that the country is protected from plunder.

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Linda Hohnholz

Editor in chief for eTurboNews based in the eTN HQ.

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