The Prince of Wales has said there can be no pause in the work to protect endangered species as he presented the annual Tusk Conservation Awards in London.
Prince William, who has been patron of the Tusk Trust for almost 20 years, also praised rangers working to stop poachers and illegal traders targeting animals in the wild. The Prince said, in his speech, that they are ”guardians working on behalf of the global community.”
Three awards were handed out at the ceremony which took place at the Savoy Hotel in London. The heir to the throne said that those recognised face challenges ”each and every day” and the event was a chance for everyone to reflect on those issues.
The winners were Fanny Minesi from the Democratic Republic of Congo who was presented with the Conservation in Africa award for work rescuing bonobos from poachers and rewilding them in safety.
Jealous Mpofu from Zimbabwe was recognised as Tusk Wildlife Ranger of the Year. His work involves protecting the painted dogs in and around Hwange National Park.
Ekwoge Abwe from Cameroon was given the Prince William Award for Conservation in Africa for work including brokering alliances and challenging logging plans.
The Prince of Wales said ”today’s winners now join an impressive alumni, formed of Africa’s most impactful, committed and passionate conservationists. Fifty five inspirational individuals now make up the Awards’ alumni network. They are innovating, collaborating and leading the charge.”
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