As this issue goes to press on May 24th, the reports from Zambia are all pointing toward a resolution of the area-allocation mess and a speedy reopening of hunting there. We realize we have said that before, and that our credibility on the issue is wearing thin with some readers. However, we do believe this is it now. All the signs point toward action being taken in a matter of days.
What convinces us that action is imminent are reports that top officials from what are called Community Resource Boards (CRBs) are converging on Lusaka this weekend. CRBs are associations made up of individuals from communities adjacent to safari areas. These CRBs are in line to make the final decision on who gets which area. The other development that convinces us action is imminent is increased talk about the High Court threatening to hold the Minister of Tourism in contempt if he doesn't take prompt action to allocate areas and get hunting started immediately.
The upshot is, we believe this problem will be solved by the time hard-copy subscribers to this newsletter read this notice. If so, we will have the latest developments posted on our web site, www.huntingreport .com. Just don't be surprised, if a last-minute season in Zambia does develop, to find there is a waiting line for the country's most important trophy animal - namely, lion. With lion closed in Botswana and with some hunters afraid to go to Zimbabwe, a lot of hunters have already hedged their bets by getting in line with outfitters who are expected to get areas in Zambia. Nonetheless, there are sure to be some choice openings. We'll do our best to direct you toward them on our web site. Be sure and check it this month.
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