Dr Munyai is a dynamic and goal-driven young research scientist whose doctorate focused on developing baseline data and framework for the aquatic biodiversity status of Kruger National Park wetlands systems.
His research produced four data chapters: (a) Fish and macroinvertebrate communities in wetlands, (b) Common wetlands fish trophic interactions, (c) Chlorophyll-a and hydroperiod dynamics, and (d) Sediment chemistry in wetlands. All his data chapters are published in the Wetlands Journal, Water Journal, Environmental Pollution and Science Research Journal and the Chemistry and Ecology Journal, respectively.
According to Dr Munyai, the results of the study provide baseline data to inform decision-makers on reinforcing conservation measures for all wetlands in protected areas like the Kruger National Park.
“After realising that natural features such as wetlands ecosystems are entirely neglected and are prone to various anthropogenic impacts such as pollution, climate change, overexploitation and overharvesting, it prompted me to conduct a study which highlights the importance of these wetlands and the ecosystems services they provide to society,” he says.
“Besides wetlands supporting a diverse range of plant and animal species, many of which are rare or endangered, they also provide habitats for birds, fish, mammals, and countless other organisms.
Understanding how they function and the services they provide can drive conservation efforts that are essential to protect these valuable ecosystems from degradation and loss, ensuring their benefits are sustained for future generations.”
Dr Munyai wearing his Waders in Kruger National Park sampling for Fish in wetlands.
He further explained that developing baseline data for wetlands biodiversity is essential because it provides a reference point that allows scientists and conservationists to monitor changes in biodiversity over time.
“This helps in detecting trends, such as declines in species populations or shifts in ecosystem health, which can indicate environmental degradation or the impacts of climate change. With baseline information, conservation efforts can be more effectively targeted.
Knowing the existing species, their population sizes, and habitat conditions helps in developing strategies to protect and restore wetlands. It also aids in setting realistic conservation goals and priorities. Furthermore, baseline studies provide the necessary documentation to ensure compliance with environmental protection regulations, especially for wetlands that are under threat of deterioration.”
He further notes that the results of the study will be a reference to SANPARKS Scientific Services together with the Maluleke community that currently owns the part of Kruger National Park where the research was conducted.
Dr Munyai pursued a PhD while working as a lecturer. He had to balance lecturing responsibilities with his studies, which required dedicated time management.
“I split time between preparing lectures, marking assignments, marking test scripts, facilitating practicals for undergraduate students, invigilating and marking examinations, and conducting my PhD research which involved going to the field sometimes for the whole week to collect data.”
He says that juggling work and studies was challenging, especially when meeting deadlines for his PhD and teaching responsibilities.
“It was overwhelming sometimes, but I never felt financially strained because the University of Mpumalanga paid the full cost of my tuition fees. I express my heartfelt gratitude for UMP’s generous support.”
Dr Munyai says the journey was highly demanding but equally rewarding, as the knowledge acquired from the doctorate study will be shared with his students.
“One advantage of being a lecturer while pursuing a PhD is the ability to bring cutting-edge research into the classroom. In most cases I had to integrate my research findings into my teaching material, making my lectures more dynamic and relevant to my students,” he said.
Story by Lisa Thabethe. Pictures supplied.