Chibememe Earth Healing Association (CHIEHA) is a community-based initiative centered on the small village of Chibememe, in Masvingo province, Zimbabwe. Arising in response to habitat destruction and deforestation in the Zivambava Island forest and the Chibememe mainland forest, the organization’s work has been driven by the 17 households that make up Chibememe community. Its work has spread to include neighbouring communities, however, with the development of environmental outreach and sustainable livelihoods activities that aim to sustainably manage natural resources in the wider Sangwe area and the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park Conservation Area.

Key activities have included innovative efforts to raise awareness on conservation through the initiative’s Environment and Cultural Information Centre, as well as the processing of non-timber forest products, and promotion of eco- and ethno-tourism to capitalize on the area’s rich natural and cultural heritage.

 

Key Facts 

Equator Prize Winner: 2004

Founded: 1998

Location: Masvingo province, Zimbabwe

Beneficiaries: Communities in the South Eastern Lowveld

Biodiversity: Riverine and savannah ecosystems

 

Case Study

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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