Wildlife Expert & Academic, Named ZimParks Chief
14 January 2025
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By Munacho Gwamanda-Renowned Zimbabwean academic and conservationist, Professor Edson Gandiwa, has been appointed as the new Director-General of the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks).

Gandiwa takes over from Fulton Mangwanya, who recently assumed leadership of the Central Intelligence Organisation (CIO) following the dismissal of Isaac Moyo last week.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, ZimParks spokesperson Tinashe Farawo highlighted Gandiwa’s extensive expertise in wildlife conservation and academia, emphasizing his readiness to lead the organization.

“Following the appointment of Dr. Fulton Mangwanya as the Director General in the President’s department, Prof. Edson Gandiwa has been appointed as the Director General of Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority with immediate effect. Professor Gandiwa brings over 20 years of experience in wildlife conservation and higher education,” read the statement.

Professor Gandiwa boasts a distinguished career that spans over two decades. He previously served as:

  • Director of Scientific Services at ZimParks (2021–2025).
  • Executive Dean and Professor in the School of Wildlife, Ecology, and Conservation at Chinhoyi University of Technology (2013–2021).
  • Ecologist and Senior Ecologist at Gonarezhou National Park under ZimParks (2004–2013).

His academic credentials are equally impressive:

  • PhD in Wildlife Conservation and Management from Wageningen University and Research, The Netherlands (2013).
  • MSc in Tropical Resource Ecology (with merit) from the University of Zimbabwe (2007).
  • BSc Honours in Environmental Science and Health (with first-class honours) from the National University of Science and Technology, Zimbabwe (2004).

A prolific scholar, Professor Gandiwa has coauthored over 200 peer-reviewed scientific publications.

His research interests encompass biodiversity and wildlife conservation, protected area management, community-based natural resource management, ecotourism, and media framing of conservation issues.

Beyond academia, Gandiwa serves as the Chair of the African Elephant Fund Steering Committee under the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and holds seats on several influential boards.

Under Gandiwa’s leadership, ZimParks is expected to build on these successes and tackle emerging challenges in wildlife conservation amid growing climate and socio-economic pressures.