Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo [email protected]
ZIMBABWE Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) director-general Professor Edson Gandiwa has put Zimbabwe’s conservation sector on the regional map after being honoured with the Most Inspiring Conservation Leader Protecting Africa’s Wildlife Award.
Prof Gandiwa received the prestigious accolade at the 2026 Global Impact Leaders Summit and Awards held on August 29 in South Africa.
The award recognises his leadership in advancing wildlife conservation and promoting sustainable coexistence between people and wildlife.
ZimParks said the recognition was not only a personal achievement for Prof Gandiwa, but also an endorsement of Zimbabwe’s broader conservation efforts.
“The award goes beyond an individual. It is an affirmation of the leadership, dedication and collective effort behind wildlife conservation in Zimbabwe,” said ZimParks.
The authority said the recognition demonstrated that Zimbabwe’s conservation work was receiving international attention and reaffirmed the country’s role in shaping the future of wildlife conservation on the continent.
“The award signifies that our conservation efforts are being appreciated and recognised beyond our borders. It demonstrates that Zimbabwe has an important voice and role in shaping the future of conservation in Africa,” said ZimParks.
Prof Gandiwa, an academic and conservation scientist, has been at the helm of ZimParks, which is responsible for managing the country’s protected areas and wildlife resources.
His recognition comes at a time when African countries are increasingly grappling with challenges including human-wildlife conflict, habitat loss, poaching and the need to ensure communities benefit from wildlife conservation.
The award therefore places a spotlight on Zimbabwe’s approach to balancing wildlife protection with the interests and livelihoods of communities living alongside protected areas.
