Ethics are Everything – A call for accountability

Formal legislation covers people’s behaviour when game viewing in, for example, a National Park. These rules include not feeding animals, not leaving designated roads, not travelling above 40 kms an hour and not being in the park at night.

There are also rules that cannot be formally legislated for but that are “ethical” rather than legal. “Ethics” are the principles that guide our behaviour towards making the best choices that contribute to the common good of all and choices that are in accordance with the rules or standards for right conduct or practice. One could say, for example, that an ethical safari tour would avoid practices such as luring out animals for the “benefit” of guests or scaring animals with loud noises for better photo opportunities, though there is no legislation forbidding these activities.

The article below was written by John Laing, chairperson of the Zimbabwe Professional Guides Association, in the Association’s Newsletter of June 2025.

” The Executive Committee has received an unusually high number of calls from across the country regarding the matters raised in this piece. We encourage all members to read the article carefully and to discuss these issues within your own teams and areas of operation. If you require support or guidance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the Executive Committee, we are here to assist.

Ethics

During Lance Nesbitt’s tenure as Chairman of the Z.P.G.A., the phrase “Ethics Are Everything” became part of our identity. While it has sparked some debate, particularly around its grammar, the choice was intentional and meaningful. In drafting our Code of Conduct, we intentionally chose the plural form “are” to reflect the many dimensions of ethical behavior that shape and define our profession. “Ethics Are Everything” is more than a slogan. It’s embroidered on our shirts, printed on our stationery, and visible across our website and social media.

Most importantly, it shapes how we are seen as members of the Zimbabwe Professional Guides Association.

Yet recent reports from across the country are deeply concerning. Members proudly wearing the Z.P.G.A. badge and bearing the Zimbabwean flag on their shoulders have been seen violating the very Code of Conduct that defines and unites us.

The following issues have been raised:

Disturbance of wildlife – Concerns have been raised about guides approaching painted dog dens with guests, allegedly causing the animals to abandon their sites.

We recognise that this is one side of the story and are actively looking into the matter. Until all facts are established, we urge members to exercise the utmost care and avoid any behaviour that could disturb sensitive wildlife.

Unsafe guiding practices – We’ve received reports of learner guides conducting walking safaris in dangerous game areas without a qualified professional guide present, relying solely on National Parks rangers for oversight. This practice is both unsafe and against protocol. The presence of a qualified professional guide is not optional, it is earned through experience and examination, and it is essential for guest safety and ethical conduct.

Overcrowding on foot – In certain areas, particularly open floodplains, there have been occasions where several guides and their guests have gathered on foot to view key sightings, such as painted dogs. While these moments are often shared in good spirit, with mutual respect and coordination, the perception from the outside can be troubling.

Large numbers of people around endangered or high-profile species can lead to unintended stress for the animals and raise concerns about our guiding standards. Even with the best intentions, we must remain aware of how our presence is viewed and the example we set.

Off-road driving violations – We’ve received reports of significant off-road driving in protected areas involving both professional and learner guides. While we understand the pressures that come with delivering exceptional sightings, we must remind all members to strictly adhere to Parks regulations.

These rules are in place to protect the environment and uphold the integrity of our profession. We urge everyone, especially learner guides, to stay on designated roads and remain focused on earning their qualifications the right way. These incidents don’t just affect individual reputations, they risk undermining the trust of our clients, the integrity of our industry, and the image of Zimbabwe’s tourism sector on a global stage. As professional guides, we must be mindful of the ripple effects our actions can have.”