Preserving Biodiversity at Hillside Dams Conservancy: A model for Urban Green Spaces The Hillside Dams Conservancy, a historic natural sanctuary in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, is making remarkable progress in preserving its vibrant ecosystem. One of the Conservancy’s ongoing successes is its active campaign against lantana camara, an invasive plant species that poses a threat to the area’s native flora. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of conservationist Bernadette Mupinda, her team, and enthusiastic volunteers, this challenge is being met with determination and innovation. Home to over 100 indigenous plant species and more than 200 species of birds, the Conservancy is a biodiversity hotspot. Through community-led efforts and regular plant management initiatives, including the manual removal of lantana camara, the team has achieved an impressive 70% reduction in invasive species. Volunteer student Zothile Zulu highlights the power of community involvement, noting that visible progress motivates greater participation. The Conservancy also employs modern technology, using smartphone apps to monitor plant populations and track conservation gains in real time—an approach that enhances efficiency and transparency. As Zimbabwe’s urban landscapes evolve, Hillside Dams stands out as a thriving example of sustainable green space management. Amid broader environmental challenges such as deforestation and urban expansion, the Conservancy’s commitment to preserving natural heritage is more important than ever. With strong local support and increasing public engagement, Hillside Dams Conservancy continues to flourish as a beloved destination and educational resource. Its success serves as an inspiring blueprint for other parks and conservation areas across the region—proving that with passion, innovation, and collective action, the future of urban green spaces can be both bright and sustainable. Documentary by Tawanda Mupatsi @babethehunter @Zo the local artist #hillsidedams#fyp
The Hillside Dams Conservancy, a historic natural sanctuary in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, is making remarkable progress in preserving its vibrant ecosystem. One of the Conservancy’s ongoing successes is its active campaign against lantana camara, an invasive plant species that poses a threat to the area’s native flora. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of conservationist Bernadette Mupinda, her team, and enthusiastic volunteers, this challenge is being met with determination and innovation.
Home to over 100 indigenous plant species and more than 200 species of birds, the Conservancy is a biodiversity hotspot. Through community-led efforts and regular plant management initiatives, including the manual removal of lantana camara, the team has achieved an impressive 70% reduction in invasive species.
Volunteer student Zothile Zulu highlights the power of community involvement, noting that visible progress motivates greater participation. The Conservancy also employs modern technology, using smartphone apps to monitor plant populations and track conservation gains in real time—an approach that enhances efficiency and transparency.
As Zimbabwe’s urban landscapes evolve, Hillside Dams stands out as a thriving example of sustainable green space management. Amid broader environmental challenges such as deforestation and urban expansion, the Conservancy’s commitment to preserving natural heritage is more important than ever.
With strong local support and increasing public engagement, Hillside Dams Conservancy continues to flourish as a beloved destination and educational resource. Its success serves as an inspiring blueprint for other parks and conservation areas across the region—proving that with passion, innovation, and collective action, the future of urban green spaces can be both bright and sustainable.
