With a strong background in administration and a passion for contributing to scientific advancement, I bring a dynamic, adaptable and solutions-focused approach to my role at the Centre for Mineral Biogeochemistry. I thrive in fast-paced environments, where my ability to manage multiple tasks, meet tight deadlines and communicate effectively, adds value to both team efforts and independent projects. Over the years, I have developed a high level of organizational efficiency, attention to detail and a calm, analytical mindset…especially under pressure. My interpersonal skills allow me to build constructive relationships across diverse teams, supporting collaboration and productivity. I take pride in being reliable, proactive and committed to continuous personal and professional growth. I approach every responsibility with integrity and a strong work ethic, consistently aiming for excellence in everything I do. Being part of a research-driven centre allows me to contribute meaningfully behind the scenes, while continuing to learn and grow within a dynamic academic environment.

Luan plays an integral part in facilitating interfaculty collaboration between the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences (NAS) and the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences (EMS) by managing data, engaging stakeholders, and promoting interdisciplinary initiatives. His contribution is centred on integrating cross-faculty research outputs strengthening academic and industry partnerships, and the provision of operational support and process optimization to support the Centre's commercialization strategies. Luan is pursuing further studies at the University of the Free State, with a strong interest in research-driven innovation and collaborative academic development in the fields of economic, management and natural and agricultural sciences.

Since high school, I’ve always known I wanted to pursue a career in science and work in a laboratory setting. However, the exact path wasn’t always clear. During university, I explored several majors, unsure of which scientific field to dedicate myself to. It wasn’t until my third year that I discovered a deep fascination with microbiology and its complexities. I completed a Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology and Biochemistry, followed by an Honours degree in Microbiology. Currently, I’m pursuing a Master’s in Medical Microbiology, focusing on hospital-acquired infections and antimicrobial resistance. My research focuses on metagenomic approaches targeting hospital and clinical environments—critical hotspots for pathogen persistence and disease transmission. I’m driven by a constant desire to challenge myself and improve both academically and personally. I am exciting for the future and what I may discover in this astonishing nature we are surround by and part of. 

www.linkedin.com/in/xandi-gouws-4a19b9285
https://orcid.org/0009-0008-5564-8070

Ouma Ngoepe is the Laboratory Coordinator at the Centre for Mineral Biogeochemistry, University of the Free State. With a strong background in Geology and Geohydrology, she holds a BSc in Geology, BSc Honours in Geohydrology, and an MSc in Geohydrology. Her research interests include groundwater quality, mineral–microbe interactions, and sustainable land rehabilitation of mining-affected areas. She is skilled in lab management, sample preparation and analysis, and the development of standard operating procedures. Passionate about science communication and mentorship, she is also actively involved in departmental training and outreach programmes.

Nyiko Gift Mutileni is a PhD candidate in Land Rehabilitation at the Centre for Mineral Biogeochemistry, University of the Free State. She is a plant ecologist with an MSc in Botany, specialising in terrestrial biodiversity, environmental compliance, and sustainable land management. Her research focuses on developing a real-time, GIS-based information system for managing invasive alien plant species, integrating ecological data, legal frameworks, and stakeholder engagement.

Nyiko is an Environmental Scientist at ZZ2, where she leads biodiversity initiatives and ensures compliance with GLOBALG.A.P. and SIZA Environmental standards. In her spare time, Nyiko volunteers with the Custodians of Rare and Endangered Wildflowers, a SANBI-led programme monitoring threatened species, and serves on the committee of Friends of the Haenertsburg Grasslands, which protects the critically endangered Woodbush Granite Grassland. She also writes environmental awareness articles for Mountain Getaway, a local tourism magazine. Her work bridges science, policy, and community engagement in support of sustainable landscapes.

linkedin.com/in/nyiko-mutileni-912aa5109

Dr Claassen holds a MSc in Aquatic Ecology and a PhD in Ecological Risk Assessment. He has been involved in a broad range of research in the public and private sectors as well as in the international arena over the past 33 years. Dr Claassen’s key competencies are in regional water resources development, strategy and scenario development, ecosystem services, risk assessment, and decision support systems. His most recent involvement include: Scenarios for the South African Maritime Sector; A Scalable Approach Towards Realizing Tangible Benefits in Transboundary River Basins and Regions; A Research, Innovation and Knowledge Management Road Map for the South African Maritime Sector; and Defining Adaptive Capacity in the Context of Environmental Change. Dr Claassen has published 11 papers in peer reviewed journals, edited 2 books, authored 11 book chapters, presented 61 conference papers, authored in excess of 100 research reports and published 18 popular publications.

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8006-2310

He obtained a B.Sc., B.Sc (hons) and M.Sc degrees from the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa. He obtained a PhD degree in May 1996 from the University of Pretoria. Title of thesis: Monoclonal antibody detection of growth stage and isolate dependent antigen expression in Haemophilus paragallinarum. He was employed by the Veterinary Research Institute, Onderstepoort. In 1990, he moved to Dept of Poultry Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Onderstepoort. In July 1998 he moved to Dept of Microbial, Biochemical and Food Biotechnology, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Science, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, where he run the Veterinary Biotechnology Research Group. In 2005 he was promoted to Professor. He is now an Emeritus Professor. He has published a total of 95 peer-reviewed articles and 9 book chapters. Apart from his ongoing work on infectious coryza, he also has an active research interest in disease control options in a post antibiotic era. This work is on improved biosecurity in animal production with a focus on resistance to disinfectants. He has produced 13 PhD students with 4 in process, 42 Masters students with 3 in process and 65 Hons students.

https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Robert-Bragg-4

Ayabonga Makatala is a dedicated agricultural professional originally from Engcobo in the Eastern Cape and currently based in Bloemfontein. She holds a Master’s degree in Sustainable Agriculture from the University of the Free State, which she completed in 2024. Ayabonga’s academic journey also includes a National Diploma in Farming Management from King Hintsa TVET College, an Advanced Diploma in Agricultural Extension from the Central University of Technology, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Sustainable Agriculture from UFS. Her career experience spans administrative and agricultural roles, including her current position as an Assistant Officer at the Centre for Mineral Biogeochemistry at UFS. She brings a strong work ethic, a passion for sustainable farming, and proven skills in communication, administration, and teamwork. With practical experience in crop and livestock farming, Ayabonga is committed to advancing agricultural development and food security in South Africa.

http://www.linkedin.com/in/ayabonga-makatala-562322193

I serve as the Agricultural and Soil Specialist at Eco Elementum (Pty) Ltd, a multidisciplinary environmental and engineering consultancy based in Pretoria. In this role, I am responsible for leading and conducting all agriculture-related specialist studies and soil monitoring projects undertaken by the firm. My academic background includes a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (BSc Agric) from North-West University (NWU), where I developed a strong foundation in soil science, crop production, and environmental sustainability. At Eco Elementum, I apply this expertise to assess the suitability of land for agricultural development, evaluate soil health and fertility, and contribute to integrated environmental impact assessments. My work supports the implementation of sustainable land-use practices across various projects, ensuring both regulatory compliance and environmental stewardship.

www.linkedin.com/in/cobus-van-der-schyff0000

Johan has >20 years of environmental and contamination consulting and project management experience. He has provided key specialists services relating to water (hydrology and geohydrology) and contaminated land management. His duties have included detailed site investigations, remediation design and implementation, water characterisation and management projects, project management of large projects as well as environmental management. He has managed projects ranging from single site to rapid response multi-site projects as well as multi- jurisdictional programmes. Many of these projects have involved him pulling together and managing teams from across different geographies. He has worked in Central, Southern and West Africa, in countries including Angola, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Chad, Lesotho, Liberia, Mozambique, Namibia, South Sudan, Swaziland, Tanzania, The Gambia, Uganda and Zimbabwe.

www.gleamhydro.co.za
www.linkedin.com/in/johan-kriek-1b057414/

From a young age, I have been captivated by the natural world. This curiosity has led me to pursue a career in microbiology, where I could explore the world that we do not always see. My research focuses on Avibacterium paragallinarum, a bacterium responsible for infectious coryza in poultry, leading to reduced egg production. Over the past four years, I have dedicated my studies to understanding this pathogen's mechanisms and its overall impact. Currently, as a PhD candidate, I aim to identify strategies to prevent infection. My work has been recognized at both national and international conferences, underscoring its significance in the field. Beyond my research, I am passionate about education and empowering the youth. I dedicate my free time to teaching, believing that education is the key to a brighter future. I hope to inspire the next generation to appreciate the wonders of nature and the importance of science in solving real-world problems.

www.linkedin.com/in/azil-coertzen 

Mr Lucky Mamanyuha was born on the 14th November 1980 at Mamanyoha Village Bolobedu, Ga-Modjadji, Mopani District, Greater Letaba Municipality, Limpopo Province. He holds an M.Sc. in Agriculture (Soil Science), obtained in 2012 from the University of Limpopo. His Master’s research, titled “Evaluation of three commercial composts used by small-scale farmers in Limpopo Province, South Africa,” focused on optimizing organic soil amendments for improved productivity among smallholder farmers. This followed the successful completion of a B.Sc. in Agriculture (Soil Science) in 2004 at the University of Limpopo after matriculating from Makoma Senior Secondary School in 2000. With 20 years of extensive experience in the Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Mr Lucky Mamanyuha has served in various capacities dedicated to soil fertility and land resource management. Since 2009, he held the position of Production Scientist (Crop Soil and Water) under the Crop Science Research Section at the Department’s Head Office. His earlier roles include Agricultural Scientist (Soil Scientist) in the Vhembe District across Thulamela (2008–2009), Makhado (2007–2008), and the District Office (2005–2007). He began their career in 2005 at the Agricultural Research Council’s Institute for Soil, Climate, and Water (ARC-ISCW) as part of the Professional Development Program. He is currently a PhD candidate in Land rehabilitation at the University of the Free State, Centre for Mineral Biogeochemistry, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences. Mr Mamanyuha Lucky has maintained a strong research presence through oral and poster presentations at numerous scientific and professional conferences.

Mojalefa Victor Mbewe is a registered scientist with SACNASP and currently serves as a Remediation Specialist at Transnet SOC Ltd., where he leads the remediation and contaminated land portfolio. With over 11 years of experience in hydrogeology and environmental management, he has worked on numerous national and international projects. His expertise includes contaminated land assessment, remediation design, groundwater monitoring, and environmental compliance. Mojalefa holds an honors degree in hydrogeology and a degree in geology, and his professional background spans both consulting and mining sectors. He is deeply committed to sustainable land rehabilitation and the integration of cleaner production strategies in environmental management. Originally from Sefikile Village, Mojalefa is also passionate about giving back to his community and driving positive environmental change through strategic collaboration and innovation.

I am Muti Muti, an experienced Environmental Coordinator specializing in mine rehabilitation and closure, with over 4 years in the environmental management field. I hold a bachelor’s degree in Natural Resource Management Honours. I have worked on various land rehabilitation projects, leading efforts in land rehabilitation, environmental monitoring and stakeholder engagement. My expertise includes the implementation of sustainable land-use strategies, vegetation and soil quality assessments, re-vegetation, compilation of greenhouse gas inventories and compliance with regulatory closure frameworks. I am passionate about ecological restoration; hence I collaborate closely with engineers, regulators and local communities to ensure that disturbed lands are returned to safe, stable and productive post-mining use. I am also involved in other environmental aspects such as water, air quality and waste management. My commitment to best practice and continuous improvement drives successful closure outcomes that align with both environmental and social expectations.

www.linkedin.com/in/muti-muti-45702124b
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Muti-Muti?ev=hdr_xprf 

Philip Ayres is a registered Professional Natural Scientist and Landscape Ecologist with over 15 years of experience in environmental consulting, research and implementation projects. He currently serves as the Sustainability & Innovation Executive at the Life Green Group, where he leads initiatives in sustainable land management and nature-based solutions. Philip is also the Managing Director of Life AgriScience, an applied environmental and agriculture research services business. His expertise lies in integrating ecological principles with practical solutions to promote sustainable development.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/philip-ayres-4b24a152/

Dr Gladys Belle is a researcher at the Centre for Mineral Biogeochemistry at the University of the Free State. She earned both her PhD and a Master’s degree in Environmental Health from the Central University of Technology. Her PhD focused on the contamination of water, soil, and plants caused by heavy metals from gold mine tailings in Matjhabeng Local Municipality, South Africa. Currently, her research centers on the potential risks posed by pharmaceuticals of emerging concern in water resources and their implications for both aquatic ecosystems and human health. During her Postdoctoral studies, she worked on a grant from the Water Research Commission, focusing on the assessment of aquatic and human health risks associated with COVID-19 drugs in the Orange Sengu Transboundary River Basin. She was also involved in the National Research Foundation Postdoctoral Project, which focuses on the Risk assessment of COVID-19 drugs in water resources: sources, pathways, and receptors. Working now as a researcher at CMBG, Gladys wishes to shift her research focus towards solution-based initiatives that can positively impact the community while also exploring opportunities for commercialised research.

http://orcid.org/0000-0001-7855-4626

Thuto Ramosoeu is a PhD candidate in Land Reclamation at the University of The Free State, conducting research under the Centre for Mineral Biogeochemistry. Her research investigates the impact of azithromycin metabolites on aquatic ecosystems and human health, as well as the role of land rehabilitation strategies in mitigating these risks. With a background in geology and geohydrology as well as a completed Master’s degree investigating the risk of azithromycin on the aquatic ecosystem and human health, Thuto is passionate about addressing pharmaceutical pollution and advancing sustainable management of water resources. Her work aims to provide actionable insights for improving policy and environmental management strategies in Southern Africa.

At present I am busy with an honor majoring in medical microbiology and virology as my lifelong goal is to become a researcher. So that in future I can research topics that include bioremediation and biosafety. at CMBG I assist with DNA extractions and am keen to learn more molecular lab techniques and sampling techniques for the purpose of improving analysis for land and water rehabilitation.

Thomas specialises in translating complex natural systems (bioinformatics, behavioural genetics) into commercial innovation across biogeochemistry, e-commerce, consumer/user and economic behaviour, and financial technology. Working at the intersection of these domains, he develops predictive models using network analytics, game theory, complexity theory, and machine learning.
Thomas' research triangulates quantitative data with qualitative insights, revealing patterns that inform future-ready business models for organisations confronting uncertainty at scale. Recent projects include applying biomimetic principles to regional economic development, designing human-AI consensus engines using Delphi methods, and creating analytical frameworks that integrate large, unstructured environmental and financial datasets.
This interdisciplinary approach allows him to deliver actionable strategies for banks, fintechs, e-commerce, biotech and environmental ventures by drawing parallels between natural systems and market dynamics—providing unique competitive advantages in both scientific and commercial contexts, grounded in fundamental principles of complex adaptive systems. 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-de-ridder-267285b3?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app

Philasande Mahlako is an accomplished Environmental Officer with the Inkomati-Usuthu Catchment Management Agency, where she specializes in compliance monitoring and enforcement across the Inkomati-Usuthu Water Management Area in Mpumalanga, South Africa. She holds a Master of Science in Integrated Water Resource Management and is currently pursuing a PhD in Land Rehabilitation at the University of the Free State’s Centre for Mineral Biogeochemistry. With expertise spanning water quality regulation, ecosystem health, catchment governance and land-use sustainability, Philasande is deeply committed to advancing science-based environmental governance. Her research focuses on the ecological rehabilitation of degraded landscapes and the integration of biogeochemical principles into sustainable land and water management. She has presented her work at national and international conferences and is dedicated to bridging the gap between academic research and policy implementation for improved catchment resilience and environmental protection.

https://urldefense.com/v3/__http://www.linkedin.com/in/philasande-mahlako-7a2271312__;!!LRJdiIM!A2fkYIGuP9vlbADeKTc95jh4XgbcLaeqPQXqukdZ0D5fgiqa68WeeJhUIjWs5LqCFHLZ-Gbho-mkravMUFM$

Makda Mahrai is a PhD candidate at the Centre for Mineral Biogeochemistry (CMBG) at the University of the Free State (UFS). She is specialising in microclimate dynamics within agrivoltaic systems and their role in degraded land rehabilitation. She holds a Master’s degree in Pasture Science from the University of Pretoria and has obtained her B.Sc. in Animal Sciences from the University of Asmara, which laid the foundation for her interest in enhancing animal performance through improved forage quality before receiving her B.Sc. Hons in crop science from the University of Pretoria. Her academic and research topics of interest centre on mine land rehabilitation, climate change mitigation and forage quality. In her free time, she enjoys sightseeing, hiking, and exploring nature-based activities.

Dr Megan Welman-Purchase is an environmental geochemist and geologist with a PhD in Environmental Geochemistry. She has over a decade of hands-on experience in advanced analytical techniques, including XRD, XRF, SEM, EPMA, BET, and FTIR, and manages a suite of geological laboratories. Megan’s research explores the behavior and environmental mobility of critical and toxic elements such as cyanide, arsenic, and uranium, particularly in mine tailings and contaminated environments. Her work combines mineralogical and chemical analysis with system-level thinking, aiming to understand both natural processes and potential remediation strategies. She has also recently expanded into isotope geochemistry and microbiology to further explore biogeochemical cycling. Passionate about scientific collaboration and knowledge sharing, Megan actively supports the development of infrastructure and capabilities in analytical geoscience across South Africa.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/megan-welman-purchase-348a5a2a?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=android_app

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9144-164X

I am a PhD candidate in Medical Microbiology at the University of the Free State, South Africa, focusing on a one health approach to the hypervirulence and antimicrobial resistance of ESKAPE pathogens in clinical and veterinary settings. My research builds on a Master’s degree focused on the connection between antibiotic and disinfectant resistance in clinically significant species of Serratia marcescens, and an Honours degree exploring resistance patterns on high-touch clinical surfaces. 

 https://www.linkedin.com/in/wanja-swart-7806871b8/                                                           

https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Wanja-Swart-2

Dr Yolanda Kotzé is an accomplished geohydrologist and environmental scientist. With a PhD in Geohydrology from the University of the Free State, she has over two decades of multidisciplinary experience spanning water resource management, groundwater governance, capacity development, water security, national and international water law, environmental pollution and environmental disease management. Dr Kotzé has led and contributed to numerous national and international research projects, particularly for the WRC and Danish EPA, while affiliated as researcher at the Institute for Groundwater Studies and currently at the Centre for Mineral Biogeochemistry. Her work focuses on sustainable water solutions and ecological engineering for the agricultural, municipal, industrial, and mining sectors.

Dr Kotzé brings strong analytical, research, and project management skills, and is known for her integrity, teamwork, and leadership. As a former Fogarty International Scholar at the University of Michigan, USA, she is committed to capacity development, academic excellence, and interdisciplinary research that bridges science, policy, and practice. She has delivered guest lectures, supervised postgraduate candidates, and contributed to the development and implementation of training manuals, governance frameworks, policies, guidelines and strategies in both academic and government contexts.

https://orcid.org/0009-0002-7424-9098

Nicolle Loader is a researcher at the Centre for Mineral Biogeochemistry (CMBG) at the University of the Free State (UFS), where she works on land rehabilitation and environmental restoration projects aimed at revitalizing degraded and mining-impacted landscapes. Alongside her professional role, she is pursuing a Master’s degree in the Department of Geography at UFS. Her academic research focuses on the analysis of extreme temperature indices and climate datasets across South Africa, with a particular interest in the implications for agriculture, water management, and environmental resilience. With a unique position at the intersection of practical restoration and climate research, Nicolle is committed to bridging the gap between science and society. She is an enthusiastic science communicator who enjoys creating engaging content—such as maps, visuals, and short videos—to make complex environmental issues more accessible to wider audiences. Whether in the field, lab, or online, Nicolle brings curiosity, creativity, and a deep sense of purpose to her work in shaping a more informed and sustainable future.

www.linkedin.com/in/nicolleloader                           

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5586-5277

Prof Wayne Truter is a Registered Professional Natural Scientist in the field of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences. He holds a PhD from the University of Pretoria and currently serves as a Full Research Professor in the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, CMBG at the University of the Free State. In addition, he is the Executive Manager of the GREEN FUTURES HUB and a founding member of the Land Rehabilitation Society of Southern Africa (LaRSSA). Prof Truter's expertise lies in the regeneration planning and management of degraded or mined agricultural land, with a strong focus on the interactions between soil, grasses, legumes, water, livestock, and wildlife. His work emphasizes the development of sustainable, practical, and economically viable regenerative land use systems in disturbed environments. With over 26 years of research experience, Prof Truter has led numerous studies on regenerative agriculture and land rehabilitation, particularly through the use of agricultural and industrial byproducts as soil ameliorants. He also leads the South African Circular Agriculture Initiative (SACAI), a national programme under the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation, in collaboration with the CSIR.

linkedin.com/in/wayne-truter-9040aa62 

http://orcid.org/0000-0001-7701-3481

Yolandi Schoeman is a pioneering ecological engineer dedicated to designing and restoring bio-intelligent ecosystems to support planetary and beyond-planetary health. Her work fuses ecological engineering, extreme biodiversity, and chronoecological innovation to regenerate fragile systems on Earth and inform future life-support systems for off-planet environments. Recognized globally, she has contributed to post-normal science, nature-based solutions, and corporate ecological strategies across Africa, Russia, Australia, and the U.S. She founded the Ecological Engineering Institute of Africa and is advancing frontier fields like astro- and archaeo-ecological engineering. Her accolades include winning the 2016 Global Cleantech Innovation Program (South Africa), being a global runner-up in Silicon Valley, participating in the Austrian Leadership Program (2017), and serving as the African Expedition Scientist for the 2025 Spaceward Bound Expedition to Ladakh. Yolandi holds two PhDs—from the University of the Free State (Environmental Management) and North-West University (Economic and Management Sciences).

https://www.linkedin.com/in/yolandi-schoeman-phd-14479794/

Dr Mariana Erasmus is a Senior Lecturer and the Acting Director of the Centre for Mineral Biogeochemistry (CMBG) at the University of the Free State (UFS). She also directs the postgraduate programmes in Land Rehabilitation and manages the BIOGRIP Mineral Node. With a PhD in Biochemistry and over 20 years of experience, her research addresses environmental challenges through nature-based solutions.

She has published in high-impact journals including Nature, secured over R80 million in funding, and authored more than 200 scientific and technical reports. Dr Erasmus co-led the strategic development of the CMBG and oversaw the construction of its research facilities. She has supervised more than 30 postgraduates and mentored over 35 interns, many now in leadership roles across academia, industry, and government. Her mentorship is inclusive, impact-driven, and leadership-focused.

She contributes to institutional governance via the UFS Senate, Faculty Management and Research Committees, and the Bio-Safety Ethics Committee. Nationally, she serves on the EXCO of TritechSA, promoting STEM among high school learners. Dr Erasmus is also an Editorial Board Member and Academic Editor for Microbial Biosystems Journal and regularly reviews for journals, conferences, and grants.

As a passionate science communicator, she has featured in over 35 media outlets, including international articles, national radio, and television, empowering women, youth, and local stakeholders through accessible science education.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariana-erasmus-2855373a/

www.researchgate.net/profile/Mariana-Erasmus

SCI PROFILES ID 876665
WEB OF SCIENCE RESEARCHER ID AAE-9823-2019
SCOPUS AUTHOR ID 56492618800
LOOP PROFILE ID 186525

Born in the heart of the Eastern Cape, Mthatha, Selunathi Sakwe was raised amidst the region’s lively rivers and wetlands, fostering in him a deep reverence for freshwater ecosystems. His early interest in aquatic life, especially the complex interactions among species and water quality, directed his career towards becoming one of South Africa’s foremost freshwater scientists.

He obtained his Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences and his Bachelor of Science with Honours in Botany from Walter Sisulu University (WSU), where he enhanced his understanding of plant-water interactions. His academic pursuits culminated in a Master of Science in Zoology (WSU), focusing on the distribution and diversity of benthic invertebrates, which serve as vital indicators of river health. His research provided significant insights into ecosystem resilience, laying the foundation for his subsequent endeavours in conservation and policy.

In 2014, Sakwe commenced his employment with the National Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) as a Professional Natural Scientist (SACNASP-registered). Since then, he has assumed a crucial role in the protection of South Africa’s freshwater resources. His areas of expertise include:

• Ecosystem Monitoring and Conservation – Leading assessments of rivers and wetlands to preserve biodiversity.

• Water Quality Management – Developing strategies to address pollution from industrial, agricultural, and urban sources.

• Policy Development and Implementation – Facilitating the integration of scientific knowledge with governance to promote sustainable water utilization.

• Research and Innovation – Enhancing methodologies for the assessment and restoration of freshwater ecosystems.

• Human Capital Development – Mentoring emerging scientists and cultivating skills in aquatic ecosystem management.

Sakwe is a dedicated advocate for science-based water management, emphasizing that "healthy ecosystems are the foundation of water security." In addition to his scientific pursuits, he is devoted to mentoring the upcoming generation of aquatic scientists, thereby ensuring South Africa preserves its expertise in freshwater conservation and ecology.