Department Terms of Reference

The objectives of the Kabul Zoo include supporting the conservation of endangered species by providing a last chance of survival through coordinated breeding in ex-situ conditions and raising stocks for rehabilitation in the wild as and when it is appropriate and desirable. The zoo aims to inspire empathy and understanding about the need for natural resource conservation and ecological balance among its visitors. Additionally, it provides opportunities for scientific studies useful for conservation and creates a database for sharing between agencies involved in in-situ and ex-situ conservation. The Kabul Zoo's department scope and responsibilities include preparing a long-term master plan for development to ensure optimum utilization of resources, maintaining a healthy and natural environment, and giving priority to endangered species in their breeding plans. The zoo regulates the number of animals in their collection to serve the objectives of the institution, and a management plan for every species is prepared to achieve this goal. The zoo also cooperates in pooling animals into genetically, demographically, and socially viable groups at identified zoos identified for the purpose. The department's responsibilities also include avoiding keeping surplus animals of non-viable species, adopting population control measures if necessary, and overcoming obstacles to achieve the zoo's objectives. The zoo oversees the health care of its animals, enriches its current facilities through technical and financial support from the international community, and participates in national and international conferences on wildlife and maintains a strong relationship with mass-media and organizations working with wildlife. The zoo also has a strong working relationship with the Cultural Affairs department, Deputy City Services, and the Environmental Protection of Afghanistan. The Kabul Zoo has a hierarchical structure, consisting of a sub-department, ticket control, deputy-administration division, control officer, guards, gardener, sanitation worker, and other staff members. The zoo's reporting structure includes a financial report to the DG Cultural Affairs department and monthly and annual reports to international wildlife organizations. The zoo has close working relations with the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAZARC) and the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA).