Project background, funding and design
In 2018, Agence Française de Développement commissioned a feasibility study for the rehabilitation, conservation and sustainable development of the Great Zimbabwe WHS. Carried out by Voltere (joint-venture leader), Hydea and Savannah Heritage (Voltere) (WHS), the study provided a detailed framework for the development of the site, consulting local and national stakeholders and addressing the challenges affecting the local economy, social livelihoods and environment of surrounding communities.
Based on the findings of the study, the Great Zimbabwe Development Project (GZDP) will promote the tourism and cultural heritage of Zimbabwe by enhancing the World Heritage Site and strengthening national capacities in terms of heritage enhancement and development of related economic activities.
Objectives
As a direct response to the key outcomes and needs identified in the Feasibility Study, the AFD signed a EUR 3 million project in June 2022 “The rehabilitation and development of the Great Zimbabwe World Heritage Site” with United Nations Office for Projects Services (UNOPS) focusing on the following key areas:
- Capacity building of the National Museums and Monuments of Zimbabwe (NMMZ) under the Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage for conservation and documentation of the site;
- Renovation and upgrading of the infrastructure with a new interpretive system and new visitor facilities;
- Delegation of a private operator to conduct commercial management and marketing development of the World Heritage site, and
- Development of a rural land management plan and support to local communities for the implementation of a cultural program within a cultural hub and to improve community-based management of natural resources and risks.
As such, the project aims to promote the tourism and cultural heritage of Zimbabwe by enhancing the World Heritage Site and strengthening national capacities in terms of heritage enhancement and development of related economic activities. The overall objectives of the project are to enhance the value of the Great Zimbabwe site, strengthen the site’s cultural and educational programming, diversify the associated tourism offerings, and attract a wider audience, thereby providing multiple benefits in terms of achieving the SDGs. The project, formally launched by His Excellency the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, has strong support and buy-in from the government and all key stakeholders. A strong governance framework has been established within the policy framework of the government.
