Wildlife conservationists gathered at the Tusk Conservation Awards held in London’s Leicester Square on Thursday for their efforts in protecting wildlife in Africa.
The event, now in its seventh year, was hosted by Kate Silverton with the aim of celebrating the achievements of those conservationists working to protect Africa’s natural heritage.
Prince William, who has been Patron of Tusk since 2005, honored the conservationists and rangers who he said have risked their lives to protect Africa’s natural heritage.
“Tonight we remember their courage and selfless commitment,” he said.
“These conservationists and rangers have lost their lives because Africa remains at the forefront in the battle to end the illegal wildlife trade.”
The Prince William Award for Conservation in Africa was awarded to Mozambican Carlos Lopes Pereira, for his fight against poachers who have been contributing to the dwindling numbers of protected species like elephants and rhinos.
Zambia’s Benson Kanyembo was awarded the Wildlife Ranger award, while Senegal’s Tomas Diagne was honoured for his work in conserving African turtles and tortoises.
Two finalists – Jeneria Lekilelei from Kenya and Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka from Uganda — also won grants in recognition of their work to protect lions and mountain gorillas respectively.
