By Abbas Nazil
UNEP Executive Director and UN Under-Secretary-General, Inger Andersen, has announced the appointment of Luthando Dziba as the next Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services, commonly known as IPBES.
This announcement was made on LinkedIn, highlighting the critical timing of Dziba’s appointment as global biodiversity faces unprecedented challenges and the role of IPBES becomes increasingly central in informing policy decisions and conservation strategies.
Luthando Dziba is a celebrated conservationist with extensive experience in leading major conservation initiatives.
He joins IPBES after holding significant leadership roles at the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) and Conservation at South African National Parks (SANParks).
Throughout his career, Dziba has focused on developing innovative solutions to conservation challenges, with a particular emphasis on the protection of species and the preservation of habitats that sustain them.
His work has consistently highlighted the critical link between biodiversity conservation and sustainable development, aligning closely with the mission and objectives of IPBES.
Dziba is already well-acquainted with the work of IPBES and other Multilateral Environmental Agreements, having supported the South African delegation to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) and the Convention on Biological Diversity (UN Biodiversity) over many years.
His experience in these international forums has given him a deep understanding of global biodiversity policy, making him well-positioned to guide IPBES in its scientific and policy advisory role.
The appointment comes at a time when the work of science-policy platforms such as IPBES is crucial to addressing global environmental challenges, including habitat destruction, species extinction, and climate change.
Under Dziba’s leadership, IPBES is expected to accelerate the delivery of high-quality scientific assessments and provide policy-relevant knowledge to governments, organizations, and stakeholders worldwide.
Colleagues and partners anticipate that Dziba’s vision will enhance the platform’s influence in shaping conservation strategies that benefit both people and the planet.
Andersen expressed optimism about working closely with Dziba to achieve faster and more ambitious progress #ForPeopleForPlanet.
The conservation community has welcomed Dziba’s appointment, reflecting confidence in his expertise, experience, and commitment to leading IPBES during this pivotal period.
As the new Executive Secretary, Luthando Dziba will play a central role in promoting science-based solutions to safeguard global biodiversity and ensure that IPBES continues to be a driving force in conservation efforts worldwide.
Welcome, Luthando, to this critical role where your leadership is set to make a lasting impact on global biodiversity and ecosystem preservation.
