Eco-Logical Intelligence Lifetime Achievement

The Eco-Intelligence Lifetime Achievement Award is an honour bestowed upon an individual who consistently embodies the core principles of Eco-Logical thinking.

This prestigious accolade acknowledges a visionary leader who exemplifies the seven V.I.R.T.U.E.S of Eco-Logical thinking:

V - Vision for a sustainable future,
I - Interconnected and integrated thinking,
R - Regenerative relationship with Nature,
T - Embrace of Three-Dimensional Intelligence (Intellectual, Emotional, & Intuitive),
U - Ubuntu behavior,
E - Ethical consumerism, and
S - Commitment to sustainability for the well-being of People, Planet, and Profit.

We are pleased to announce that this year's recipient of the Eco-Logical Intelligence Lifetime Achievement Award is Dr Mavuso Msimang, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the field of conservation and his unwavering dedication to the principles of Eco-Logical thinking.

Dr Mavuso Msimang is a respected South African icon known for integrity, leadership, and his ability to revitalise struggling organisations—earning him the nickname “Mr Fix-It.” Honoured with doctorates from UNISA and Wits, he has championed equity, efficiency, sustainability, and conservation throughout his distinguished career.

South African National Parks (SANParks)

As CEO (1996–2003), he expanded South Africa’s park network, including Table Mountain and Namaqua National Parks, and removed fences to link parks and communities. He promoted tourism, community engagement, and partnerships such as Working for Water and Working for Wetlands to combat invasive species and protect ecosystems. Following major fires in 2000, he chaired Ukuvuka: Operation Firestop, the precursor to Working on Fire.

iSimangaliso Wetland Park

As Chairperson, he skilfully resolved conflicts among communities, developers, and industries, enabling South Africa’s first World Heritage Site to thrive through inclusive, ecologically sound management.

Peace Parks

Working alongside Nelson Mandela, he helped establish Transfrontier Parks linking South Africa with its neighbours, including Kruger, Kgalagadi, Ai-Ais–Richtersveld, and Great Limpopo.

African Parks

A founding member of African Parks (2000), Dr Msimang helped grow the organisation to manage 23 parks across 13 African countries, employing over 5,000 people.

Mouse-Free Marion Project

Currently Chairperson, he leads efforts to eradicate invasive mice threatening 19 seabird species—including the Wandering Albatross—on Marion Island, one of South Africa’s most critical conservation missions.