Harare, (New Ziana) – The Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) has announced the appointment of Professor Edson Gandiwa as its new Director General, replacing Dr Fulton Mangwanya who was elevated to the President’s department.
The appointment is effective immediately and marks a significant transition in leadership within the organization dedicated to the conservation of the country’s rich wildlife heritage.
In a statement, ZimParks spokesperson Tinashe Farawo said Professor Gandiwa brings with him an impressive portfolio, boasting over 20 years of extensive experience in wildlife conservation and higher education.
“We are excited to welcome Professor Gandiwa as our new Director General. His wealth of experience and unwavering dedication to wildlife conservation will be invaluable as we continue our mission to protect and preserve Zimbabwe’s natural heritage,” he said.
Professor Gandiwa’s previous roles include serving as the Director of Scientific Services at ZimParks from January 2021 to January 2025, as well as holding the position of Associate Professor, Inaugural Executive Dean, and Full Professor in the School of Wildlife, Ecology and Conservation at the Chinhoyi University of Technology from May 2013 to January 2021.
A seasoned ecologist, Professor Gandiwa has also served as a Senior Ecologist based in Gonarezhou National Park, where he honed his expertise in wildlife management and conservation strategy.
His academic credentials are formidable, featuring a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Wildlife Conservation and Management from Wageningen University and Research in the Netherlands, a Master of Science in Tropical Resource Ecology from the University of Zimbabwe, and a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Environmental Science and Health from the National University of Science and Technology (NUST).
With a prolific output, Professor Gandiwa has co-authored over 200 peer-reviewed scientific publications, showcasing his commitment to advancing knowledge in biodiversity and wildlife conservation.
His research interests span a wide range of critical areas, including protected area management, community-based natural resource management, ecotourism, and the media’s role in framing wildlife conservation narratives.
In addition to his academic and professional accomplishments, Professor Gandiwa currently serves as the Chair of the African Elephant Fund Steering Committee under the United Nations Environment Programme in Nairobi, Kenya, and is a member of several influential boards within the conservation sector.
New Ziana