The Tusk Conservation Awards are more important than ever. A recent report revealed an unprecedented crisis in biodiversity: global wildlife populations have seen an average decline in size of 73% in 50 years.* Tusk believes it is essential to fund, support and amplify the work of the conservationists on the ground in Africa – those who, with their progressive conservation projects, are driving the meaningful change that benefits both wildlife and people.
Royal Patron HRH The Prince of Wales took to the stage at the Savoy to reveal this year’s winners, pay tribute to their outstanding work and present them with their trophies. The 12th edition of Awards was hosted for the second year running by wildlife biologist and presenter, Liz Bonnin.
The winners of the 2024 Tusk Conservation Awards are:
Prince William Award for Conservation in Africa, sponsored by Ninety One, was awarded to Nomba Ganamé from Mali Elephant Project.
The Tusk Award for Conservation in Africa, sponsored by Defender, was presented to Edward Aruna from the Reptile and Amphibian Programme in Sierra Leone.
Tusk Wildlife Ranger Award, sponsored by the Nick Maughan Family Foundation, was awarded to Claver Ntoyinkima from Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda.
H.R.H. The Prince of Wales addressed this year’s winners saying:
“Now is the time to support those globally who work to prevent future generations from becoming disconnected from nature. We live in a world in which incredible wildlife exists, and I want that for the generations that follow. I want my children to live in a world where swallows still migrate, gorillas still live in the cloud forests of Uganda and rhinos still roam the arid rangelands of Namibia. It will be thanks to extraordinary leaders – such as those that we are celebrating today – that this will happen. They remind us of the importance of living at peace with nature; they should guide and inspire us all to drive change.”
Each of the three winners received a trophy crafted by jeweller and sculptor Patrick Mavros, as well as significant grant funding to continue their vital work.
Speaking about the Awards, Nick Bubb, CEO of Tusk commented: “Africa is still rich in animal, plant and marine biodiversity. Tusk’s vision is a future where the continent’s wildlife and human communities not only coexist peacefully, but positively thrive. Tonight we once again celebrate the remarkable, courageous and committed individuals on the ground who safeguard Africa’s natural heritage night and day, and who demonstrate to us all the power of understanding, respecting and protecting the natural world.”
Hendrik du Toit, Founder and Chief Executive, Ninety One: “The endless degradation of the natural world is pushing our plant dangerously close to a series of tipping points that will lead to a less hospitable Earth for people and wildlife. Congratulations to all of those that have been recognised at the Tusk Awards. Their dedication to conservation plays a vital role in preserving Africa’s endangered environments and species, and it is essential that we continue to support their unwavering commitment to this task.”
The Tusk Conservation Awards are made possible thanks to the continued generosity and support from: Ninety One, Nick Maughan Family Foundation, DHL, Defender, ISPS Handa, Fortemus Films & Gallantium, Shelton Fleming, Justerini & Brooks, Patrick Mavros, Mantis Group and Accor, The Savoy Hotel.
