Leonard Chitongo

I am a Human Geographer and critical scholar driven by a single question: How do we build more resilient communities in the face of socio-economic and climatic change?

With over 15 years of academic experience, I currently serve as a Senior Lecturer in Human Geography at Walter Sisulu University.

My journey has taken me from the classroom to the field, including roles as a Post-doctoral Scholar at the University of KwaZulu-Natal and an Associate Professor at Marondera University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology.

My research sits at the intersection of spatial planning, public policy, and human development. I am deeply interested in the "on-the-ground" realities of rural and urban livelihoods, specifically how communities navigate challenges like climate change, housing shortages, and health crises (such as the post-COVID-19 landscape). I have published extensively on these topics, exploring everything from climate governance in Southern Africa to the efficacy of smallholder farming.

Beyond research, I am passionate about mentorship. I have had the privilege of supervising over 20 undergraduate and postgraduate students, including current PhD candidates, guiding the next generation of African development scholars.

Core Competencies:🌍 Human Geography: Rural & Urban Planning, Settlement Development.📊 Public Policy Analysis: Evidence-informed policy and Monitoring & Evaluation.🌱 Sustainability: Climate Resilience, Livelihood Strategies, and Food Security. I am always looking to connect with fellow researchers, policymakers, and institutions interested in sustainable development and resilience in the Global South.