Introduction

The Conex Division was formed in 2002 following the amalgamation of the Indigenous Resources Division and the Extension Division.
Headquartered in Harare, it operates throughout Zimbabwe and is structured into two departments:

• Field Operations – headed by the Operations Manager (Harare)
• Gazetted Forest Management – led by the Chief Conservator of Forests (Bulawayo)

Purpose of the Division

The division’s main objective is to enhance the supply and sustainable management of trees and forest resources,
particularly in communal and resettlement areas. This is achieved through:

• Community empowerment with knowledge and practical skills in tree planting and management
• Promotion of sustainable and economic use of forest products via value addition
• Supporting communities in establishing forest-based enterprises by providing:
  • Technical training
  • Organizational capacity
  • Marketing skills
• Management and sustainable utilization of gazetted indigenous forests

Goals of the Division

1) Reduce Environmental Degradation

• Seedling production & Tree Planting
• Conduct anti-poaching patrols

2) Increase Compliance with Forestry Regulations

• Organize workshops for staff & stakeholders
• Publicize new regulations through mass media
• Conduct inspections to ensure compliance
• Issue forest produce movement permits
• Accredit exporting companies

3) Increase Forestry Contribution to GDP

• Increase random checks at border posts
• Establish revenue collection systems
• Develop guidelines and proposals for main sources
• Support forest-based enterprises
• Implement loss control measures

4) Improve Accuracy of Records of Forest Resources

• Map forest resources at district level
• Conduct timber inventories in gazetted forests
• Protect gazetted forests from fire
• Develop and maintain game water supplies
• Conduct game counts
• Review forest management plans for gazetted forests