CAPTURING ZIMBABWE'S BEAUTY: EU BIODIVERSITY PHOTO CONTEST WINNERS ANNOUNCED

The competition, aimed at raising awareness about biodiversity conservation, emphasised the belief that there can be no protection of nature without the involvement of people, and no sustainable future for communities without biodiversity. The EU remains committed to this vision through its ongoing projects in Zimbabwe. (Learn more)

We would like to thank all participants in this years competition who shared a variety of inspiring and beautiful images. The Delegation would also like to thank our external jury members Angela Jimu Angela, a renowned visual storyteller and advocate for female photographers in Southern Africa, and Rumbidzai Takawira, the EU's Green Ambassador, dedicated conservationist, journalist and founder of Conservation Conversation. After a robust and competitive selection process, the following five photographers have been selected for their outstanding contributions:

1. First Place- Tinotenda Nyandoro
2. Second Place- Jared Bunga
3. Third Place- Harry Randell
4. Honourable Mention- Kudzai Tinago
5. Honourable Mention - Wilson Kakurira

The work of these talented photographers support the narrative on the harmony between Zimbabwe's wildlife, ecosystems, and the communities that live alongside them. As part of their achievement, the winners will receive exciting prizes, including a safari in Zimbabwe, vouchers for photographic equipment, and gifts courtesy of Focal Point Zimbabwe. Additionally, their winning images will be featured in the EU Biodiversity Calendar for 2025 and exhibited at an upcoming Biodiversity Celebration Event at Mukuvisi in October during the EU Green Diplomacy Weeks. This exhibition, featuring other competition submissions, will headline an EU travelling exhibition with stops in Kadoma, Gweru and Bulawayo that will help to raise awareness about the connection between people and nature in Zimbabwe.

As part of EU Green Diplomacy Weeks-a global initiative promoting environmental protection and sustainability-the EU Delegation to Zimbabwe is proud to support efforts to conserve biodiversity and strengthen community engagement. Running from September to November, Green Diplomacy Weeks will feature a series of events, including the Biodiversity Celebration at Mukuvisi in October, which will also feature an expert panel discussion on "The Role of Communities in Protecting Biodiversity," highlighting how sustainable development for communities is essential for successful conservation efforts.

In parallel, the EU is contributing to the Wildlife Ranger Challenge, Africa's largest celebration of rangers, which raises awareness of their crucial role in protecting wildlife. The challenge culminates in a 21km race held in Dete, near Hwange National Park, organized by the Painted Dog Conservation Trust. This event not only highlights the essential role rangers play in safeguarding the Hwange Buffer Zone, but also in supporting local livelihoods. The EU is proud to show its solidarity with the rangers working tirelessly to safeguard Zimbabwe's natural heritage.

These initiatives reflect the EU's broader commitment to sustainable development through its Global Gateway strategy, the EU's flagship program promoting high-quality, sustainable infrastructure investments worldwide. With a focus on digital connectivity, climate and energy, transport, health, and education, Global Gateway addresses global challenges like climate change while helping partner countries meet their development goals.

In Zimbabwe, these efforts are part of the EU's Global Gateway EUWithYou campaign, which champions sustainable development through Green and Climate Smart Agriculture (GCSA) and Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment (GEWE). These initiatives underscore the EU's commitment to creating a sustainable future where both people and nature flourish, working hand in hand to preserve biodiversity and support resilient communities.