UB Joins Regional Universities Consortium to Advance KAZA Research and Conservation
The University of Botswana (UB) has joined six (6) universities from Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe in establishing a regional academic consortium to strengthen collaborative research, education and conservation across the Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA TFCA).
The agreement establishing the KAZA Universities Consortium was signed at the University of Namibia’s Katima Mulilo Campus, marking a step towards closer academic cooperation in addressing shared environmental, social and economic challenges across the region. Vice Chancellor, Professor David Norris signed on behalf of UB.
The consortium brings together UB, University of Namibia, University of Zambia, Copperbelt University, Lupane State University, National University of Science and Technology of Zimbabwe and University of Zimbabwe. It will provide a platform for collaborative research, postgraduate training, academic exchanges, capacity development and community engagement.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, KAZA TFCA Executive Director, Dr Nyambe Nyambe, emphasised the importance of academic partnerships in generating evidence to address challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, pressure on natural resources and youth unemployment. He underscored the role of research in informing policy, supporting communities and strengthening conservation efforts.
The signing was followed by the KAZA Universities Consortium Research Conference, held from the 13th to 16th of October 2026 under the theme “One KAZA: People, Nature and Health.” The conference brings together researchers, academics, policymakers and conservation practitioners to exchange knowledge and identify collaborative responses to regional challenges.
The consortium strengthens opportunities for UB to contribute its research and academic expertise to regional initiatives linking biodiversity conservation, sustainable development and community wellbeing.
The KAZA TFCA Secretariat acknowledged the University of Namibia for hosting the event and German Development Cooperation for supporting the initiative.
Source: Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area - KAZA TFCA