A gateway to
Zambia’s natural heritage.
The Airport Wildlife Reserve proposal explores a destination for conservation education, research, guided visitor experiences and local enterprise in the KKIA Airport City context.
UPDATED PROPOSAL DATED 12 FEBRUARY 2026
The development concept
ZamPro has submitted an updated Airport Wildlife Reserve proposal to Zambia Airports Corporation Limited for consideration. The proposed privately financed development would combine visitor facilities, conservation education and research, subject to a suitable site, independent assessment, agreements and approvals.
Ministry support for the original proposal
In a letter dated 24 June 2024, the Ministry of Tourism acknowledged and expressed support for the Airport Wildlife Reserve proposal received on 6 June 2024. The letter was addressed to Yousuf Zumla in his then capacity as Chairman of the Tourism Council of Zambia.
The Ministry recognised the proposal’s alignment with the mandates of the Department of Tourism and the Department of National Parks and Wildlife, expressed support for providing wildlife for the proposed reserve, and requested a detailed implementation plan. It also indicated that DNPW would be copied to facilitate involvement and coordination.
This describes the Ministry’s position in the June 2024 correspondence. It is not a claim of approval of the updated February 2026 scheme, land allocation, a concession award, wildlife-transfer authorisation, secured finance or current regulatory clearance.
“We are pleased to offer our support in providing wildlife for the AWR and look forward to collaborating on this exciting initiative.”
Engagement with DNPW
ZamPro has engaged with the Department of National Parks and Wildlife on matters relevant to its wildlife-conservation mandate. The scope of any implementation role, wildlife provision, permits or formal partnership remains subject to the relevant documented arrangements and approvals.
A conditional path to delivery
Independent aviation-safety feasibility, environmental and social assessment, land-use decisions, demand validation and financial due diligence must guide the next stage. No existing wildlife reserve, assured safety improvement or confirmed investment return is represented.
ICAO guidance calls for wildlife-risk assessment and management of wildlife-attracting land uses around aerodromes (ICAO wildlife-hazard guidance ↗). Site selection and design must therefore be tested on their merits; redesign or an alternative location may be necessary.
Intended benefits and revenue
The concept seeks opportunities for conservation learning, research, skills development and local supply chains. Potential revenue activities include guided experiences, hospitality, retail and educational services; each requires validation and the appropriate agreements.
Project milestones
- June 2024: Original proposal acknowledged and supported by the Ministry of Tourism, with an implementation plan requested.
- February 2026: Updated proposal prepared for submission to Zambia Airports Corporation Limited.
- Next stage: Confirm the evaluation pathway, technical requirements, commercial terms and financing arrangements.
Bring the right expertise to the next stage.
We welcome aviation-safety specialists, conservation practitioners, technical advisers and prospective operating partners.