Minister of Tourism, Rodney Sikumba, has issued a stern warning to the people of Muchinga Province, urging them to refrain from harming the endangered shoebill stork, a species that is central to conservation efforts and the local economy. The warning comes amid a prevalent belief among fishermen in parts of the Bangweulu Wetlands that sighting the bird brings bad luck for fishing.
During a tour of the Bangweulu Wetlands last Sunday, Mr. Sikumba stressed the importance of protecting the shoebill, highlighting the consequences that harming the bird could have on conservation initiatives and the local economy, which benefits from eco-tourism. “The shoebill is one of Zambia’s most iconic bird species, attracting tourists from around the world,” said the Minister. “If we continue to harm or threaten its existence, we risk losing a valuable part of our natural heritage and the economic benefits it brings to local communities.”
The shoebill stork, along with the black lechwe antelope, is a key species in the Bangweulu Wetlands, drawing significant attention from tourists who visit to observe these rare creatures. The bird is listed as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), primarily due to habitat destruction and poaching.
Mr. Sikumba further called on local communities to embrace conservation efforts that promote sustainable tourism and offer economic opportunities. “We must see the shoebill not as a threat but as an asset,” he added. “By protecting this bird, we are also securing jobs and development opportunities for our people right here in the province.”
The government has committed to strengthening patrols and awareness campaigns to prevent poaching and ensure the survival of the shoebill in its natural environment. This comes at a time when concerns are rising in Muchinga Province about the bird’s association with witchcraft in some local communities, further fueling negative perceptions.
Since 2022, concerted conservation efforts have been underway to protect the shoebill, led by African Parks through the Captive Rearing Programme. In mid-July 2022, two shoebills, Gus and Thomas, were successfully released into the wild after being raised in captivity. This program is part of broader efforts to nurture the species and ensure its survival.
Additionally, initiatives such as rewarding local people for safely retrieving and handing over shoebill eggs they find in the wild have been put in place to engage the community in conservation efforts. These initiatives are designed to foster a sense of ownership and responsibility among locals for protecting the shoebill and other vulnerable species.
The government’s stance is clear: the shoebill stork is not just a bird but a valuable resource that can significantly contribute to the economic development of Muchinga Province. Through sustainable tourism and active conservation, the shoebill’s future can be safeguarded, benefiting both the environment and local communities for generations to come.