Background

Dr. Haruna Abukari is a biodiversity conservation scholar and Senior Lecturer at the University for Development Studies (UDS), Ghana, with nearly two decades of experience spanning teaching, research, policy engagement, and community-based conservation practice. His expertise lies at the intersection of biodiversity conservation, urban green space management, wildlife governance, and nature-based solutions, with a particular focus on strengthening human–nature coexistence in Africa’s fast-changing landscapes.

With a Ph.D. in Natural Resources Assessment and Management from the University of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, an M.Phil. in Environmental Science from the University of Ghana, Legon, and a BSc. in Agriculture Technology from the University for Development Studies, Ghana, Dr. Abukari’s academic journey reflects a progressive commitment to solving pressing environmental challenges in Africa. His professional trajectory underscores his dedication to knowledge dissemination and applied conservation science. 

Dr. Abukari’s scholarship integrates rigorous ecological assessment, social science insights, and governance analysis. His research covers conservation practice across West and East Africa, including projects on rangeland and wildlife resources management and use in northern Tanzania and northern Ghana, elephant ecology in northern Ghana, human–wildlife interactions in urban environments, and community engagement strategies for protected area sustainability in Ghana and Tanzania. His consultancies with international partners have further amplified the policy relevance of his work.

A prolific researcher and mentor, Dr. Abukari has published widely in high-impact journals and policy outlets, contributing to global debates on biodiversity conservation, forest governance, zoonotic risks, and climate change adaptation. His publications advance nuanced understanding of how local communities perceive, use, and conserve biodiversity, bridging science and policy to address the urgent challenges of conservation in Africa. His work continues to shape conversations on community-based natural resource management, climate resilience, One Health, and biodiversity governance in Africa.  He is a member of the Africa Forest Forum, a mentor to upcoming conservation scientists, and a thought leader who’s academic and consultancy contributions inspire both local and global audiences.

Email: habukari@uds.edu.gh 
Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=k7WAF6wAAAAJ&hl=en&oi=ao
ResearchGate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Haruna-Abukari-2?ev=hdr_xprf