South African National Parks (SANParks) supported by First National Bank (FNB) and Total South Africa celebrated conservationists at the 10^th annual Kudu Awardsceremony held at Gallagher Convention Centre Estates in Midrand on Thursday, 27 November.

The awards showcased excellence in the conservation industry from individuals and corporates alike. 

Acting SANParks CEO, Glenn Phillips, said, “The Kudu has for the last 10 years recognised external stakeholders for their contribution and internal stakeholders for their efforts in making SANParks the custodian of choice for the national parks system.”

He said through these awards people are being honoured for their meaningful contributions to the protection of the environment through various means which reflects society’s admirable social responsibility. “This gives meaning to the SANParks vision of ‘A Sustainable National Parks System Connecting Society’.” 

Danny Zandamela, CEO FNB Public Sector Banking, said, “Over the 10 years of our partnership with SANParks, we have been inspired to do more to protect South Africa’s natural heritage. We are proud to be part of sustained efforts to acknowledge and recognise citizens who continue to show admirable commitment in conserving our precious environment.” 

Christian des Closières MD and CEO of Total South Africa, said, “Total South Africa is proud to partner with SANParks in celebrating the 2014 Kudu Awards which acknowledges and celebrates the brave and pioneering people who ensure that conservation remains a priority and who remind and inspire us – through their work – of just how important it is that we all care for the natural world.”

As part of the awards programme SANParks also recognised long standing employees who have played a significant role in the national parks operations by bestowing a lifetime contribution Award. This award was granted to Mr Xihangalasi Eliot Mdluli from Kruger National Park (KNP). Mr Mdluli has given 46 years of service to. He was part of the team that constructed the eastern boundary fence road from Croc Bridge to Pafuri and he also built the majority of tar and gravel roads in the KNP during this period.” 

Winners of the 2014 Kudu Awards in the respective categories are:

Corporate Contribution to Conservation Award (Business Partner of the Year): 
- Gorah Elephant in Addo Elephant National Park.

Corporate Contribution to Conservation Award (Associated Partner):
- The Peace Parks Foundation.

Corporate Contribution (Professional Stakeholders):
- Saving the Survivors.

Environmental Media Contribution to Conservation (Best Journalist):
- Sipho Kings from Mail and Guardian. 

Environmental Media Contribution to Conservation (Best Publication):
- Wild Magazine.

Community Contribution to Conservation (Region of the year):
- Tsitsikamma Honorary Ranger Region.

Community Contribution to Conservation (Project of the Year):
- SANParks Honorary Rangers Sasol Birding.

Environmental Education/Capacity Building Award (Group):
- Nozuko Manyathela of Monde Primary.

Environmental Education/Capacity Building Award (Individual):
- John Lucas ‘Explore4Knowledge’. 

The awards evening also saw SANParks staff members being rewarded through the Chief Executive Awards. A total of 29 Chief Executive Awards were handed out.