Gcobani Nzonda

Environmental Scientist with an MSc in Environmental Sciences and practical experience in environmental monitoring, GIS, remote sensing, and biodiversity-related projects. Currently employed under the EPWP Environmental Graduate Programme at Siyancuma Local Municipality, gaining hands-on exposure to municipal environmental management, environmental reporting, and policy drafting processes under supervision. Possesses experience from research institutions including SANBI and SAEON, with a strong interest in dryland environments, land degradation, and applied environmental management within South Africa's municipal context.

EPWP Environmental Graduate Programme at Siyancuma Local Municipality (2025-08 – Present)

• Provide support to municipal environmental management functions, including environmental monitoring, inspections, and reporting
• Assist with the drafting and development of municipal environmental policies and strategies under guidance and supervision
• Contributed to the drafting of the Siyancuma Local Municipality Air Quality Management Policy
• Currently assisting with the development of the Municipal Climate Change Policy, including background research and drafting sections
• Apply GIS and remote sensing tools to support environmental planning, mapping, and reporting
• Assist with environmental impact assessment processes, waste management initiatives, and land degradation response activities
• Conduct field-based environmental assessments and data collection in arid and semi-arid areas
• Compile environmental reports and records for internal municipal use

Research Assistant at South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) (2020-11 – 2021-04)

• Supported early detection of alien invasive plant species
• Conducted field surveys and GPS data collection
• Assisted with species identification, classification, and map creation
• Contributed to biodiversity monitoring and reporting activities

Research Assistant at South African Earth Observation Network (SAEON) (2017-04 – 2018-04)

• Provided support for borehole and environmental data programmes
• Assisted with GIS tasks, data cleaning, and data management
• Supported administrative duties and school outreach activities

Research Assistant (Wetlands Programme) at South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) (2016-09 – 2017-03)

• Contributed to the updating of the National Wetlands Map Version 5
• Performed attribute editing and spatial corrections
• Assisted with wetland dataset validation and quality control

Master of Science in Environmental Sciences – University of KwaZulu-Natal (2016)

Bachelor of Science Honours in GIS and Remote Sensing – University of Fort Hare (2013)

Bachelor of Science in Environmental and Water Science – University of Fort Hare (2012)