daglous masveta
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
Stakeholders in the wildlife and conservation sector have welcomed the appointment of Professor Edison Gandiwa as the new Director-General of the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks).
Prof Gandiwa replaces Dr Fulton Mangwanya, who moved to a new role in the President’s Department.
Leading voices in the sector are optimistic about the future of Zimbabwe’s conservation efforts under Prof Gandiwa’s leadership.
With over 20 years of wildlife conservation experience, Prof Gandiwa is seen as a strong leader who can tackle the pressing challenges facing Zimbabwe’s wildlife and biodiversity.
Mr Phillip Kuvawoga, senior director of landscape conservation at the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) congratulated Prof Gandiwa on his appointment.
“We are thrilled to extend our warmest congratulations to Prof Gandiwa. His vision and expertise will make a significant impact on ZimParks and our shared efforts to preserve Zimbabwe’s natural heritage,” Mr Kuvawoga said.
Ms Julia Pierini, chief executive officer of BirdLife Zimbabwe also expressed her confidence in Prof Gandiwa’s abilities.
“We are very happy that Prof Gandiwa has been appointed as the new Director-General of ZimParks. His knowledge will be invaluable in the protection of Zimbabwe’s protected areas,” Ms Pierini said.
Ms Olivia Mufute, country director for the African Wildlife Foundation (AWF) said she is optimistic about the future of conservation in Zimbabwe.
“We are optimistic that the future of conservation in Zimbabwe will continue on a positive trajectory under Prof Gandiwa’s leadership,” she said.
Ms Rumbidzai Takawira, executive director of The Conservation Conversation, said they hope for continued collaboration with ZimParks.
“We look forward to working with Prof Gandiwa to strengthen conservation education, enhance public engagement, and drive innovative solutions,” she said.
With Zimbabwe’s natural heritage facing numerous challenges, from poaching to human-wildlife conflict, the conservation community is hopeful that Prof Gandiwa’s leadership will bring a new era of sustainable and effective conservation in the country.
