The Tusk Conservation Awards saw supporters join esteemed guests, to celebrate the achievements of those fighting for the survival of Africa’s iconic species and their life-enhancing work with three unique awards, the Tusk Award for Conservation in Africa, the Prince William Award for Conservation in Africa and the Tusk Wildlife Ranger Award.
The Land Rover sponsored Tusk Award for Conservation in Africa was presented to Brighton Kumchedwa by Nelson Mandela’s widow and former first lady, Graça Machel.
The award recognizes his tireless efforts and ground-breaking work in Malawi, one of southern Africa’s major illegal wildlife trade routes.
Richard Gouverneur, Managing Director, Jaguar Land Rover South Africa and sub-Sahara Africa says:”Land Rover is a proud sponsor of the Tusk Conservation Award, now in its fifth year, and has worked closely with Tusk for the past 18 years.
We are also honoured that the awards are being held on South African soil, in Cape Town, for the very first time.
The nominees’ determination and endeavour reflects the ethos that sits at the heart of the Land Rover brand; going Above and Beyond. It is truly inspiring to see how each individual has contributed to the conservation needs in their local community and I hope the awards continue to recognise their efforts, and enable them to build a sustainable future for the African continent and its wildlife.”
Launched in 2013, the Tusk Conservation Awards aim to highlight inspiring conservation work currently being undertaken to a global audience, by recognising the achievements of individuals who are helping to protect Africa’s natural heritage.
Brighton Kumchedwa was applauded for the significant impact he has already made as an up-and-coming conservationist and was handed a trophy as well as a grant of £20,000 (approximately R360 000) for his work.