Dr Igshaan Samuels is a specialist researcher on Rangeland Ecology and Pastoralism for the Agricultural Research Council in South Africa. He holds a PhD in Botany from the University of Cape Town as has worked in arid agricultural landscapes for 19 years. His research puts him in touch with grassroots activities and challenges of pastoralists, particularly indigenous peoples who depend on natural resources to achieve sustainability and climate resilience.
He is currently the co-chair of the Global Coordinating Group of the UN-designated International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists in 2026. He has been involved in policy development at both local and national level in South Africa and is currently leading the co-development of the country’s rangeland management policy and strategy.