Who Is Emmanuel de Merode? Age, Biography and Wiki
Emmanuel de Merode, a notable Belgian conservationist, was born on May 5, 1970. As of 2025, he is 55 years old. Known for his dedication to wildlife conservation, particularly in the Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, de Merode has made significant contributions to environmental efforts. His work has garnered international attention and acclaim, showcasing his commitment to protecting endangered species and promoting sustainable practices.
| Occupation | Conservationist |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | May 5, 1970 |
| Age | 55 Years |
| Birth Place | Carthage, Tunisia |
| Horoscope | Taurus |
| Country | Tunisia |
Popularity
Emmanuel de Merode's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Emmanuel de Merode's physical stature has often been commented on in the conservation community, although specific details about his height and weight are not commonly disclosed. Generally, he possesses a fit physique reflective of his active lifestyle in the field. As of 2025, it’s believed he stands around 6 feet tall and maintains a healthy weight, aligning with his active conservation work.
On 15 April 2014, Merode was critically injured by unidentified gunmen during an ambush on the road between Goma and Rumangabo, hours after a meeting with the state prosecutor.
It was reported that, during this meeting, Merode submitted a report on the park's 4-year enquiry in the actions of an oil-company alleged to be illegally exploring for oil in Virunga National Park. He was shot several times in the chest and abdomen, but survived and was able to leave the scene of the attack with the help of local residents.
Emergency surgery was performed at a local hospital in Goma. A legal enquiry into the motives and identity of the attackers was undertaken by the Congolese authorities.
Media reports have cited various suspects, including those engaged in the illegal production of charcoal, people associated with SOCO International, a British oil company engaged in the exploration for oil in the national park, opponents of the park's law enforcement activities, disgruntled local residents, and those engaged in struggles to control
park lands including, at the time, factions of the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) and of the Congolese military.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
While Emmanuel de Merode prefers to keep his personal life private, there have been discussions in media regarding his relationship status. As of 2025, he is believed to be in a relationship, though the identity of his girlfriend remains undisclosed. Previously, de Merode has expressed that family and close relationships play a significant role in his life, shaping his motivations for his conservation efforts.
He is the second son of Charles-Guillaume, Prince de Merode and Princess Hedwige Marie de Ligne-La Trémoïlle. His parents belong to two of Belgium's historically most ancient and influential families, the Houses of Merode and Ligne.
He descends patrilineally from Félix, Count de Merode, a military commander during the successful Belgian Revolution of 1830 who helped form the first Belgian legislative council and government.
His mother's branch of the House of Ligne are also the heirs to a French princely family, the House of La Trémoille; his maternal uncle is Prince Charles-Antoine Lamoral de La Trémoïlle, 13th Duke of Thouars.
Net Worth and Salary
As of 2025, Emmanuel de Merode's estimated net worth is around $2 million. This figure primarily stems from his extensive career in conservation, including roles in non-profit organizations and consultancy work. His salary varies based on project involvement, but reports indicate he earns a respectable income reflective of his expertise in conservation management and strategic planning.
Career, Business and Investments
Emmanuel de Merode has dedicated his life to conservation, with significant accomplishments in wildlife protection and environmental advocacy. Serving as the Director of Virunga National Park, he has spearheaded initiatives aimed at preserving biodiversity and fostering community involvement in conservation. De Merode has also engaged in various business ventures that bridge conservation and sustainable tourism, thereby creating avenues for economic growth while prioritizing environmental stewardship.
* WWF sustainable development series, (1999) Towards Financial Sustainability for Protected Areas: learning from business approaches. A. Inamdar, E. de Merode
Social Network
Emmanuel de Merode maintains a social presence, sharing insights and updates about his conservation work through platforms like Twitter and LinkedIn. He has amassed a following of like-minded individuals passionate about environmental issues. Engaging with his audience, he often emphasizes the importance of community participation in conservation efforts.
Given the chronic insecurity and the succession of violent wars in eastern Congo, Merode and a team of over 3000 conservationists and development practitioners have focused their efforts on economic development initiatives in a large-scale attempt to bring greater stability to the region.
In 2013 he assisted in the launching of the Virunga Alliance in an effort to drive the post-war economy of eastern Congo as an instrument for peace-building in the region.
The initiative is based on 127 local institutions from the private sector, civil society and government agencies committing to the sustainable development of the parks resources, through tourism, rural electrification through clean energy, sustainable fisheries and agriculture.
A major program aims to generate 80-100,000 jobs in the post-war communities around the national park, providing young Congolese men and women viable alternatives to engaging in conflict related activities.
Education
Emmanuel de Merode is well-educated in matters of conservation and wildlife management. He holds a degree from Cambridge University, specializing in zoology, which has significantly equipped him for his fieldwork. His educational background, combined with hands-on experience, positions him as a thought leader in the realm of environmental conservation.
Charles-Guillaume's sons grew up outside Nairobi in Kenya and Merode studied at the Banda School before attending Downside School and Durham University, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1992. He earned a PhD in Anthropology from University College, London (UCL), having concentrated on Congolese conservation issues.
He has lived in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (formerly known as Zaire) since 1993, currently residing in Rumangabo, Virunga National Park's headquarters.
