Waterbuck Translocation on to Matetsi Private Game Reserve

In June 2022, Matetsi Victoria Falls reached its’ biggest singular conservation achievement with the translocation of fourteen waterbuck from the Hwange National Park to their new home, Matetsi Private Game Reserve.


The waterbuck were generously donated by the Zimbabwe National Parks and Wildlife Management
Ame Reserve. The waterbuck were generously donated by the Zimbabwe National Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZNPWMA), and the whole translocation project was funded by GRACE. ZNPWMA, along with Matetsi’s conservation team, oversaw the waterbuck capture, which was carried out by the expert team from African Wildlife Management and Conservation translocation company. The primary concern for all parties involved was the safety of the waterbuck and the personnel involved.

Each waterbuck was individually darted (incapacitated) from a helicopter and then carried through the bush and loaded onto the capture truck where they were then re-awakened. This process was repeated over two days, with members of the Matetsi Conservation team assisting with the heavy lifting and transporting of the waterbuck through the bush where they were darted. It was a very fast paced operation to keep the waterbuck in the best condition possible and ensure they were subjected to as little stress as possible.

Following transportation to Matetsi Private Game Reserve, the waterbuck were initially settled in a
pre-built boma along the shores of the Zambezi River. The boma was to acclimatise the waterbuck
into their new environment and give them time to fatten up before release onto the vast wilderness
that is Matetsi Private Game Reserve.

This translocation project in the successful release of the waterbuck from the boma five weeks later.
They took up home around two of our solar-power waterholes, Namakana and Namaqua, which are
relatively close to the lodge, and are regularly seen seeking shade under a big sausage tree.
A huge thank you to all involved.

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Camp Manager

Caroline Yotamu

Zimbabwean born, Caroline joined the Matetsi Victoria Falls family as Camp Manager in mid-2022, and she thrives on going the extra mile for our guest experience. Caroline brings with her a breadth of experience from 5* luxury properties across South Africa, including, Mhondoro Safari Lodge & Villa, Karkloof Safari Villas, Thanda Private Game Reserve and the Oyster Box, as well as from managing Asilia Africa’s flagship Naboisho Camp in Kenya.

Caroline holds a Diploma in Hospitality Management from the International Hotel School, and is studying for a Bachelor of Business Administration Degree in Hospitality Operations Management through the same institution. After many years of working abroad, Caroline and her husband Eric (who manages a property in the neighbouring Zambezi National Park) are delighted to be back in Zimbabwe, and in their free time they love bird watching. 

Quality Assurance Manager

Sara Ellis

Sara Ellis is an incredibly dedicated and hard working member of our Matetsi family. Having been our Head Pastry Chef for over four years, Sara transitioned to her role of Quality Assurance Manager in early 2022, bringing with her a wealth of experience and an unparalleled attention to detail. Sara works primarily behind the scenes, supporting all departments to ensure that the Matetsi Magic shines through brightly in every one of our guest’s stays with us.

Sara holds a Cordons Bleus Grande Diploma from Silwood School of Cookery, Cape Town, and has worked at some exceptional Southern African establishments, including Ellerman House and Singita Pamushana, as well as on private yachts.

Sara is mother to two wonderful boys, wife of our Executive Chef, Shane Ellis, and an individual who shows great commitment not just to Matetsi Victoria Falls, but also to our local community in many ways, including standing on the Parents’ Association and driving fundraising initiatives for a local primary school.

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