Conservationist shapes future of biodiversity
From ranger to executive manager, Nomcebo Kunene's inspiring rise in biodiversity conservation is making waves in Mpumalanga.
Nomcebo Kunene has built an inspiring career in biodiversity conservation, rising from student to executive manager and celebrating her recent appointment as an advisory board member for the Nature Conservation Programme at the University of Mpumalanga.
Kunene began her journey in 1997, studying nature conservation before completing practical training at Agulhas National Park. In 2000, she joined SANParks as a project manager and later worked in the Kruger National Park (KNP). Kunene made history as the second female KNP ranger to be appointed as a section ranger for Shingwedzi, managing over 76 000ha. She later became the first woman reserve manager at Nylsvley Nature Reserve in Limpopo, marking another major milestone in her career.
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After serving in leadership roles within the Limpopo Department of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism, Kunene returned to Mpumalanga to be closer to her family and support network.
“After my divorce, I made a conscious decision to relocate back home, even though that meant accepting a demotion,” she said.
She is currently an executive manager at the Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency, overseeing performance, risk and financial management, and the implementation of audit action plans.
Born in Tjakastad, the conservationist holds a national diploma and B-tech in nature conservation from Mangosuthu University of Technology, and completed her Master’s Degree in Environmental Management in 2005 at the University of the Free State.
She said her career path has not been easy, especially working in a male-dominated field, but these roles built her resilience and leadership, shaping her into a senior conservation professional who still sees herself as a ranger at heart.
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She says her goal as an executive manager is to ensure effective and sustainable biodiversity conservation through strong strategic leadership, sound governance and efficient implementation of conservation programmes.
“I aim to strengthen protected area management, improve organisational performance, ensure compliance and accountability, promote transformation and inclusivity within the sector and make a lasting positive impact on both biodiversity and communities,” she said.
