TUI Junior Academy Clean Green Zimbabwe Initiative: Chimanimani Excursion.TUI Junior Academy Clean Green Zimbabwe Initiative: Chimanimani Excursion.TUI Junior Academy Clean Green Zimbabwe Initiative: Chimanimani Excursion.
The TUI Junior Academy Clean Green Zimbabwe Initiative recently concluded its most ambitious
environmental education program to date a planned four-day excursion to
Chimanimani National Park in Manicaland from April 6-9, 2025. Fifty enthusiastic students from
across the Matobo District in Matabeleland South participated in this immersive experience that
transformed theoretical environmental knowledge into hands-on conservation practice in one of
Zimbabwe’s most biodiverse ecological treasures.
Why Chimanimani matters
Chimanimani National Park represents one of Zimbabwe’s most precious ecological treasures. Its unique montane ecosystem is characterized by quartzite peaks, dense indigenous forests, crystal-clear streams, and exceptional biodiversity, making it both biologically significant and exceptionally vulnerable to environmental threats. As Zimbabwe grapples with deforestation, water pollution, soil degradation, and escalating climate change impacts, locations like Chimanimani provide irreplaceable opportunities for ecological education. “You cannot protect what you do not understand,” explained Ms. Kabasa Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority, (ZimParks) Matabeleland South representative. “For these students, Chimanimani offers more than beautiful scenery it provides a living laboratory where theoretical environmental concepts become tangible realities.”
Day 1: Beginning the Adventure
The excitement was palpable as students arrived at Outward Bound Zimbabwe’s facility within
Chimanimani National Park on Sunday, April 6th. After settling into their accommodations, the
participants gathered for a warm welcome address from Action 24 representatives, setting the
stage for the adventure-filled days ahead.
Day 2: Building Environmental Leadership Skills
Monday began with an inspiring opening ceremony featuring addresses from the District Schools Inspector and presentations from the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) and Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks). Students learned about the vital role of learning in conservation education and the significance of Chimanimani’s unique ecosystem. The day quickly transitioned into action as participants divided into two groups – Haroni and Nyangoma (named after local rivers), for team-building activities designed to develop both environmental awareness and leadership skills. Group Haroni mastered knot-tying techniques with ecological applications before putting their new skills to the test by constructing rafts for use in Tessa Pool. The waterfall provided spectacular backdrop as students navigated their handmade vessels.
Meanwhile, Group Nyangoma faced the exhilarating challenge of the zip line activity, which
served as a metaphor for ecosystem connections and interdependence. The Pamper Pole challenge
pushed students outside their comfort zones while teaching valuable lessons about risk assessment
and trust – skills equally applicable to environmental leadership.
Day 3: Immersed in Conservation Education
Tuesday elevated the learning experience with immersive conservation activities. Group Haroni
embarked on a botanical hiking expedition through Chimanimani National Park, where expert
guides facilitated the identification of indigenous plant species and their traditional medicinal uses.
Students diligently documented the remarkable biodiversity while engaging in discussions about
plant adaptation strategies in mountain environments. A particularly impactful segment addressed
the human-environment conflicts in the region, specifically the challenges of illegal gold panning
and the principles of restoration ecology.
Group Nyangoma delved into team dynamics through the “Ecosystem Web” communication exercise, which cleverly integrated environmental messaging into physical challenges representing ecological relationships. The creativity and engagement shown by students during these activities demonstrated their growing environmental awareness.
The evening culminated in team presentations where students shared their insights and unveiled team flags incorporating environmental symbolism they had designed. The certificate ceremony recognized their achievements and growth throughout the program.
