Mozambique: UNESCO adds Maputo National Park to World Heritage list
Mozambique: Pioneer of biodiversity conservation Roberto Zolho passes away
1:42 CAT | 07 Jul 2025
Image via ANAC
The National Administration of Conservation Areas (ANAC, IP) and its partners received with deep sadness the news of the death of Roberto Zolho, one of the pioneers of biodiversity conservation in Mozambique, in Maputo this Saturday, July 5.
Through his exemplary career, Roberto Zolho left an indelible mark on the conservation sector, and, in recognition of his invaluable contribution, was awarded the Medal of Environmental Merit by the President of the Republic in 2022.
Roberto Zolho he had a Master’s degree in Natural Resource Management (2005) from the University of Edinburgh (Scotland, United Kingdom); a Bachelor’s degree in Natural Systems and Wildlife Management (1994) from the University of Queensland (Australia); a Diploma in Wildlife Management (1985) from the College of African Wildlife Management (Tanzania); and a Diploma in Forestry (1982) from the Chimoio Agrarian Institute, Mozambique.
With over 35 years of experience in natural resource management, Zolho distinguished himself in leading several initiatives in Conservation Areas and wildlife in the country. Roberto Zolho was a founding member of the Foundation for Biodiversity Conservation (BIOFUND) and of the Game Rangers Association of Africa (GRAA).
Among his many roles, the following stand out:
- Administrator of Gorongosa National Park (1996–2007);
- Head of the Provincial Forestry and Wildlife Services in the Provincial Government of Sofala;
- Coordinator of the Degraded Land and Forest Landscape Restoration Program at the FNDS, since 2016;
- Coordinator of the Selous-Niassa Transfrontier Landscape Programme at WWF-Tanzania (2011–2014);
- Coordinator of the Development and Climate Change Project at IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) – Mozambique Office (2008–2011);
- Coordinator of the Limpopo Heartland Programme at the African Wildlife Foundation (AWF), Southern Africa Regional Office (2007–2008).
In the course of his career, Roberto Zolho worked with government institutions, national and international NGOs, and private companies in Mozambique, Tanzania, South Africa and Australia.
At this time of mourning, ANAC and its partners express their deepest condolences to the bereaved family, friends and colleagues, and pay sincere tribute to a man who dedicated his life to the protection of nature and the enhancement of Mozambique’s natural heritage.
“Farewell, Roberto Zolho. Your legacy will live on in the forests, in the Parks and Reserves and in all those who continue to fight for a greener, fairer and more sustainable future. Your passion and dedication to biodiversity conservation will continue to inspire generations, guiding us in the protection of our natural wealth.”
Source: ANAC - National Administration of Conservation Areas of Mozambique / Media Release
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