The 2024 African Conservation Awards, held by the Game Rangers' Association of Africa (GRAA), showcased the incredible dedication and resilience of conservationists across the continent.
This prestigious event not only honours the contributions of rangers in safeguarding Africa’s natural heritage but also introduces a new category to recognise the equally vital efforts of Marine Rangers.
The awards also serve as a stark reminder of the difficulties rangers face, often working in harsh conditions with limited resources. It is explained that acknowledging their efforts is vital in galvanising support for these heroes who work tirelessly to protect wildlife and habitats on the continent.
Celebrating exemplary conservationists
The winners of this year's awards were described as true exemplars of dedication in their fields:
Best Field Ranger: Modiki Claver, Ranger Team Leader, Dzanga Sangha Protected Areas, Central African Republic (CAR).
Claver's journey from porter to a leading ranger is remarkable. His leadership over a team of seven rangers in the Congo Basin has led to significant contributions in law enforcement, scientific research, and combating illegal activities, establishing him as a leading figure in conservation efforts.
1st Runner Up: Sekibibi Bareke Désiré, Central Sector Manager, Virunga National Park, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
2nd Runner Up: Jean Claude Kyungu, Former Head Ranger Maiko National Park, DRC.
Best Marine Ranger: Chanel Hauvette, Senior Marine Field Ranger, Robberg Nature Reserve and Marine Protected Area, South Africa.
Hauvette embodies dedication through her multifaceted approach to marine conservation. From managing a stranding of endangered species to building robust community partnerships, her passion and innovation shine through, inspiring those around her to value and protect marine biodiversity.
1st Runner Up: Emily Nyevu Simba, Ranger Corporal, Watamu Marine Protected Area, Kenya.
2nd Runner Up: Clive Hendricks, Section Ranger, Addo Elephant National Park, Marine Section, South Africa.
Best Ranger Team: South Luangwa Rapid Response Unit for Human-Wildlife Conflict, Zambia.
This innovative team has significantly improved human-wildlife coexistence, directly impacting the communities they serve by educating and safeguarding against wildlife-related conflicts. Their proactive measures and successful outreach have led to a 44% improvement in livestock protection.
1st Runner Up: Tango 1 Mobile APU Team, Tana Delta, Kenya.
2nd Runner Up: South Luangwa K9 Unit, South Luangwa National Park, Zambia.
Best Ranger Supporter: Munene Kamundi, Strong Ranger Initiative, Kenya.
Munene Kamundi’s work focuses on the wellbeing of rangers, addressing health and safety challenges faced in the field. His dedication to integrating mental health support and emergency training into ranger welfare is setting a transformative precedent across the continent.
In a video message, His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco, Patron of the African Conservation Awards, paid tribute to fallen heroes, remembering the 64 rangers who have lost their lives in the pursuit of conservation over the past year. His heartfelt message amplified the urgency and respect required for the ongoing fight to preserve our planet's invaluable natural heritage.
1st Runner Up: Amon Koutoua Benoît, Technical Director, Office Ivoirien des Parcs et Réserves, Côte d’Ivoire.
2nd Runner Up: WCS Congo Counter-Wildlife Trafficking Teams (North and South), DRC, and Republic of Congo.
Saturday Star
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