Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
Online Correspondent
ZIMBABWE Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) chaplain-general, Reverend Trust Mashingaidze has launched four theology books aimed at strengthening the link between faith, environmental stewardship, and wildlife conservation.
The books, titled “Theology of Ecology”, “Daily Exhortations for Rangers” (2026 Edition), “Exegetical Summary of the Minor Prophets”, and “Exegetical Summary of the Major Prophets”, were officially launched in Harare over the weekend during a ceremony attended by ZimParks officials, clergy, and academic leaders.
Speaking at the launch, ZimParks Board chairperson Dr Agrippa Sora commended Rev Mashingaidze for producing works that promote moral responsibility in environmental management.
“These books will go a long way in improving environmental stewardship and wildlife conservation,” Dr Sora said.
“I urge Rev Mashingaidze not to downgrade himself, as his work contributes significantly to the intellectual and spiritual growth of our nation.”
ZimParks director of Scientific Services, Professor Never Muboko, speaking on behalf of the director-general, Professor Edson Gandiwa, said the launch represented more than a literary milestone.
“It is a celebration of vision, purpose and the intersection between spirituality and conservation,” he said.
“Conservation is not just a technical or scientific activity; it is a moral and spiritual calling.”
Prof Gandiwa said “Theology of Ecology” highlights the sacredness of creation and the responsibility of humanity to protect the environment as part of divine duty.
He said “Daily Exhortations for Rangers” would provide spiritual strength to field staff who face daily challenges in protecting wildlife.
“Our rangers are not just protectors of wildlife but custodians of God’s creation,” Prof Gandiwa said.
“These books will remind them of the higher purpose behind their work.”
He also commended Rev Mashingaidze for documenting his ideas and said Africans must write and preserve their knowledge for future generations.
“In academia, knowledge that is not shared is not knowledge,” Prof Gandiwa said.
“Reverend Mashingaidze has created a legacy that will benefit ZimParks, the church and the wider community.”
In his remarks, Rev Mashingaidze said the books were inspired by divine revelation and his ministry within ZimParks.
He said his appointment as chaplain-general marked the beginning of a journey that fused theology with conservation work.
“When the trumpet of purpose sounded, I was not looking for titles,” Rev Mashingaidze.
“My ministry was born in the wilderness, among elephants and rangers who walk daily between life and death.”
He credited former ZimParks director-general, Dr Fulton Mangwanya, for introducing the chaplaincy office and current director-general, Professor Gandiwa, for encouraging him to turn his daily devotional messages into published works.
Rev Mashingaidze also acknowledged the academic mentorship of Dr Julius Togarepi from the Catholic University of Zimbabwe and the unwavering support of his wife, Mrs Loveness Mashingaidze.
“Revelation without reflection is noise, but revelation refined by study becomes thunder. My wife was my first supporter, the unsung song in my story.”
The launch was a milestone in promoting a holistic approach to conservation, integrating faith, science and moral responsibility in protecting Zimbabwe’s natural heritage.
