The Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA TFCA) Secretariat joins the Modise family, Southern Africa conservation community, and KAZA Partner States in mourning the passing of former Regional Coordinator for KAZA TFCA, Mr. Sedia Modise.
AZA Secretariat learnt with shock of the demise of the decorated conservationist, wildlife champion and advocate for transboundary wildlife management, who was instrumental in leading the processes which led to the establishment of what is today, the world’s largest terrestrial conservation area.
“Indeed, the history of Southern Africa TFCAs in general, and KAZA TFCA, will be incomplete without acknowledging the immense contribution by Mr. Modise. We are deeply saddened by the passing of the conservation champion who remained loyal to KAZA TFCA and was instrumental in providing institutional memory to the Secretariat’s leadership,” noted Dr. Nyambe Nyambe, KAZA Secretariat Executive Director.
Spurred by his unparalleled passion for nature and firm belief in the TFCA concept, Mr. Modise took up the difficult assignment of lobbying and persuading all stakeholders including the Botswana government to consider adoption of common practices and strategies in the management of shared natural resources.
“As KAZA Secretariat we are forever indebted to his leadership and mentorship. We will do everything in our powers to ensure that his desire for a vibrant KAZA wildlife-based economy, tourism development, community beneficiation and transboundary collaboration is realized,” highlighted Dr. Nyambe.
Rightly credited for laying the foundation for the creation of KAZA TFCA, Mr Modise’s association with transboundary conservation dates as far back as 2002, when he teamed up with consultants engaged by Peace Parks Foundation (PPF) to undertake the Pre-Feasibility Study for the TFCA.
As we bid farewell to the conservation giant, KAZA Secretariat feels highly honored to have been associated with the inspirational and visionary leader who has left an indelible mark in transfrontier conservation in southern Africa. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends.