About WECSZ
A charitable, membership-based NGO championing the harmonious co-existence of humans and nature across Zambia since 1953.
Protecting Nature is Our Responsibility
We champion the harmonious co-existence of humans and nature through knowledge and practical conservation of Zambia’s ecosystem.
Founded in 1953, the Wildlife and Environmental Conservation Society of Zambia (WECSZ) is a charitable, membership-based NGO dedicated to promoting environmental and conservation issues to all levels of the community.
We organise Zambia’s only nation-wide environmental education programmes, spearhead community-based conservation efforts in key ecosystems, and advocate for stronger conservation policies. Our work is built around four focus areas.
- Zambia's only nation-wide environmental education programmes
- Community-based conservation in key ecosystems
- Advocacy for stronger conservation policies
- A charitable, membership-based NGO since 1953
Over 60 years of environmental conservation
The Wildlife and Environmental Conservation Society of Zambia was founded in 1953. Over the decades its emphasis has grown from game preservation to a wider range of environmental and conservation issues.
- 1953
A society is founded
Established by concerned members of the hunting fraternity as the “Game Preservation and Hunting Association.”
- 1957
Operation Noah
The society mobilised international resources to rescue animals stranded by the rising waters of the newly created Lake Kariba. Proceeds from the effort funded the Wildlife Trust Limited, and the society was renamed the Wildlife Conservation Society of Northern Rhodesia.
- 1964
A society for a new nation
Alongside a newly independent Zambia, the Wildlife Conservation Society of Zambia was born — with first Republican President Kenneth Kaunda as patron.
- 1966
Conservation camps built
Treetops and Nyamaluma School Conservation Camps were constructed within Kafue National Park and the Luangwa Valley respectively.
- 1972
The first Chongololo Clubs
The first children’s clubs — the Chongololo Clubs — were formed, and the first Chongololo magazines printed and distributed the same year.
- 1978
On the air
The Chongololo Club of the Air radio programme launched, and a 13-week television series — “The Chongololo Show” — ran through the initiative of the Society’s Copperbelt Central branch.
- 1980
Into secondary schools
Clubs were launched in secondary schools, extending the programme to older students. The initiative was further supported in 1986 with the launch of the Chipembele Magazine.
- 1990
UNEP Global 500 Award
The Chongololo Programme was awarded the Global 500 Award by the United Nations Environment Programme for its sustained contribution to promoting environmental protection through awareness.
- 1995
WECSZ as we know it
Reflecting a shift in emphasis from solely wildlife to broader environmental issues, the society became the Wildlife and Environmental Conservation Society of Zambia.
Guided by a clear mission and vision
Our Mission
To conserve Zambia's wildlife and natural environment through community engagement, education, research and advocacy — ensuring nature and people thrive together.
Our Vision
A Zambia where healthy ecosystems, abundant wildlife and empowered communities are protected and valued for generations to come.
Our Values
Integrity, collaboration and stewardship. We believe lasting conservation is built on trust, local leadership and respect for all living things.