Dr Martin Kaonga is an internationally recognised author, pastor, scientist, theologian, educator, and
sustainability specialist whose work brings together Christian faith, environmental science, and responsible stewardship. With more than 35 years of experience spanning ministry, academia, research, consultancy, conservation, and international development, he has dedicated his career to helping individuals, organisations, and communities address some of today's most pressing spiritual,
scientific, and environmental challenges.
Holding two doctoral degrees, a PhD in Earth Sciences (Carbon Biogeochemistry) from the University of Cambridge and a PhD in Christian Apologetics (Science and Religion) from NTS (USA), Dr Kaonga offers a distinctive perspective that bridges biblical wisdom with scientific understanding. His work demonstrates that faith and science are not competing worldviews but complementary ways of exploring truth, providing a richer understanding of God’s creation and humanity's responsibility to steward it faithfully.
Alongside more than twenty-six years of pastoral ministry in Africa and the United Kingdom, Dr Kaonga has built an internationally respected career in climate science, nature-based solutions, biodiversity conservation, sustainability, and environmental stewardship. He has led multidisciplinary teams in the design and delivery of more than fifty-five AFOLU carbon projects across Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas, supporting initiatives in afforestation, reforestation, REDD+, agroforestry, improved forest management, soil carbon, wetland restoration, and sustainable agriculture. Collectively, these projects have contributed to the generation of more than 100 million carbon credits while promoting long-term ecosystem restoration, climate resilience, and sustainable livelihoods for local communities.
Dr Martin Kaonga has held senior leadership positions with internationally recognised organisations, including bp, ClimateCare, Fauna & Flora International, and A Rocha International. He has led multidisciplinary teams delivering nature-based solutions, ESG and sustainability programmes, biodiversity conservation, greenhouse gas accounting, climate finance, ecological restoration, and environmental and social risk management. Throughout his career, he has focused on developing practical, science-based solutions that deliver measurable environmental and social outcomes while meeting internationally recognised standards.
Alongside his work in environmental science, Dr Kaonga’s academic interests extend to the relationship between science, theology, sustainability, and Christian discipleship. His research in Christian apologetics explores how scientific discovery and biblical faith can work together to strengthen Christian belief, foster thoughtful engagement with contemporary issues, and equip believers to respond confidently and biblically to the intellectual and cultural challenges of the modern
world.
As an author, Dr Kaonga writes with the conviction that Christianity speaks meaningfully to every area of life. His books explore themes including Christian living, faith and science, creation care, biblical stewardship, sustainability, leadership, and discipleship. Through accessible yet intellectually grounded writing, he encourages readers to think critically, deepen their relationship with God, and live faithfully in an increasingly complex and rapidly changing world.
In addition to his writing, Dr Kaonga is a sought-after speaker who addresses churches, conferences, universities, leadership forums, and professional organizations on topics including Christian discipleship, faith and science, creation care, sustainability, environmental ethics, nature-based solutions, and responsible leadership. His presentations combine biblical insight, scientific expertise, and practical experience, offering audiences a thoughtful and balanced perspective on issues that shape both faith and society.
In addition to his writing, Dr Kaonga is a sought-after speaker who addresses churches, conferences, universities, leadership forums, and professional organizations on topics including Christian discipleship, faith and science, creation care, sustainability, environmental ethics, Nature-based Solutions, and responsible leadership. His presentations combine biblical insight, scientific expertise, and practical experience, offering audiences a thoughtful and balanced perspective on issues that shape both faith and society.
Whether serving in ministry, contributing to global sustainability initiatives, or engaging audiences through writing and speaking, Dr Kaonga remains committed to one enduring mission: to equip people to grow as mature disciples of Christ, steward God’s creation responsibly, and engage the opportunities and challenges of the modern world with biblical wisdom, scientific understanding, and unwavering faith.
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