Facilitators: Dr Phumlani Cimi & Ms Pumeza Mntonintshi

Dr. Phumlani Viwe Cimi
B.Sc. Honours in Botany & HDE (University of Fort Hare)
Master of Science in Education (Rhodes University)
PhD in Botany (Nelson Mandela University)

Dr Phumlani Viwe Cimi is the Head of Albany Museum and a natural scientist with a strong background in botany, indigenous knowledge systems, environmental education, and heritage work. He joined the museum in 2007 and has played an important role in developing its natural sciences and public engagement programmes.

His work bridges science, culture, and education, with a particular interest in indigenous plant knowledge, healing traditions, and community-centred learning. Dr Cimi has contributed extensively to research, museum development, and public education initiatives that connect people with the natural and cultural heritage of the Eastern Cape.

Ms Mntonintshi

Phumeza N. Mntonintshi is the Curator and Head of the Anthropology Department at Albany Museum in Makhanda. Since joining the museum in 2008, she has played a leading role in developing exhibitions, heritage programmes, and public engagement initiatives that centre African histories, indigenous knowledge systems, and community storytelling.

An experienced museum practitioner and an Igqirha, her work brings together heritage, spirituality, oral history, and healing traditions in ways that encourage dialogue across generations. Through exhibitions, workshops, and cultural programmes, she is passionate about creating spaces where communities can reconnect with memory, identity, and indigenous ways of knowing.