Staff

Nolwazi Mbongwa

Social Scientist - Social Ecological Systems, Scientific Services

Location: Office 2, Cape Research Center, Tokai, Cape Town

Email: [email protected]

Introduction

I completed my BSc., BSc. (Hons) (Cum Laude) and MSc. (Cum Laude) at the University of Witwatersrand. I have worked for Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) and South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI). I also collaborated with University of the Witwatersrand, University of Cape Town, University of Maryland, National Zoological Garden and Oxford University in various projects investigating and monitoring the wildlife trade in large carnivores and pangolins. Currently, I am a member of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Species Survival Commission (SSC) Southern African Plant Specialist Group (SAPSG), whereby my expertise and experience have added invaluable capacity to SAPSG with regards to sustainable use (linked to both subsistence and commercial trade), conservation planning, recovery work for critically threatened species, ex situ conservation and restoration and habitat conservation in southern Africa. My love for the environment stems from a rural background where nature is not only loved for its aesthetic value but it also holds cultural significance for its inhabitants.

Education

• Bachelor of Science in Ecology, Environment and Conservation at the University of Witwatersrand
• Bachelor of Science Honours (with distinction) at the University of Witwatersrand
• Master of Science at the (with distinction) University of Witwatersrand
• Candidate Doctor of Philosophy at the University of Cape Town (2020-2024)

Research Focus and Interest

• Collaborative work between resource users
• Advising scientists and conservationists in achieving the sustainable use of natural resources
• Ensuring that African cultural values are respected and considered in conservation initiatives, to avoid conflicts of interests and ensure communities can also take part in conserving the environment

Current Programmes and Projects

• Panelists at the 11th Oppenheimer Research Conference, Randjesfontein Cricket Pavilion about Conservation: Who owns the conversation?. 6 October 2022
• Panelist at National Science Week 2021 for Myezo Environmental Management Services Pty Ltd about A perspective of how scholars perceive attitudes to science in policy making in South Africa. Thursday, 5 August 2021.
• Panelist at Botanical Society of South Africa webinar about A broad background, participative research with traditional healers and practical responses to the challenges posed by increased human demands on a shrinking nature. 27 May 2021.
• Member of the IUCN Species Survival Commission Southern African Plant Specialist Group (SSC SAPSG) (2021-2025)

Publications