Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
ZIMBABWE National Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) Chaplain-General Reverend Trust Mashingaidze is set to launch four books that intertwine spirituality, environmental stewardship and moral responsibility within the conservation space.
In an interview ahead of the official launch scheduled for Saturday at ZimParks Gardens in Harare, Rev Mashingaidze said the books were inspired by his 25 years of experience in wildlife conservation and pastoral work.
“These four books are meant to inspire and encourage our rangers, who dedicate their lives to protecting wildlife under difficult conditions,” he said.
“When they are out in the bush, many unexplainable things happen — spiritually and emotionally — and I wanted to capture that experience to uplift them.”
The first book, Rangers Daily Exhortation (January 1 – December 31, 2026), is a year-long devotional guide designed to motivate and spiritually strengthen wildlife rangers in their daily duties.
The second title, The Theology of Ecology, links faith to environmental stewardship, drawing inspiration from biblical figures such as Adam and Eve, and St Francis of Assisi.
“This book teaches that understanding God and nature helps us protect the environment responsibly,” Rev Mashingaidze said.
The third and fourth books are exegetical summaries of the Minor Prophets and Major Prophets, respectively, providing contemporary theological insights for academic and pastoral communities.
“Although the prophets lived in different times, their messages still apply today,” Rev Mashingaidze said.
“Their teachings guide us to uphold integrity, moral standards and stewardship of natural resources.”
Rev Mashingaidze said this was his first time publishing books, describing the initiative as part of his legacy in the conservation and faith sectors.
“I chose to focus on moral integrity, ecological stewardship and spiritual responsibility because they are key to fighting corruption and wildlife crime,” he said.
The Chaplain-General said he aims to write 20 books within the next five years, continuing to promote ethical conservation through a spiritual lens.
Writers Ignatius Mabasa and Chirikure Chirikure, along with senior Government officials and environmental stakeholders, are expected to attend the launch.
Each book will be sold for US$20 while a full set of four will go for US$70.
Rev Masingahidze encouraged the public to attend and support the initiative, adding that proceeds will go towards printing and distributing the books to major outlets such as Typocrafters and Innov8 bookshops.
“We invite everyone — conservationists, faith leaders and the public — to join us on the day. By buying the books, you are supporting both faith and conservation,” he said.
