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Celebrating the People and Organizations Shaping the Future of Conservation.

South African National Parks (SANParks) invites South Africans from all walks of life to nominate exceptional individuals, communities, organisations and partners for the 21st Annual Kudu Awards, SANParks’ premier platform for recognising excellence in conservation. The awards celebrate those whose passion, commitment and actions help manage and sustain South Africa’s natural heritage and strengthen the future of conservation.

Across the country, ordinary people achieve extraordinary things for conservation every day. They restore ecosystems, inspire environmental stewardship, advance scientific knowledge, empower communities, support sustainable tourism, tell important conservation stories and develop innovative solutions to conservation challenges. Many do so without recognition. The Kudu Awards exist to honour these conservation champions and ensure that their contributions are celebrated.

For more than two decades, the Kudu Awards have highlighted the importance of partnership in conservation. They recognise that the stewardship of South Africa’s natural and cultural heritage is a shared national effort involving communities, government, businesses, researchers, educators, journalists and other media practitioners, conservation organisations and committed individuals.

WHO CAN BE NOMINATED?

Do you know a journalist whose reporting has brought important conservation issues into the public spotlight? A community member championing environmental stewardship? A teacher inspiring future conservationist? A researcher, volunteer, business or organisation making a lasting difference? The Kudu Awards provide an opportunity to recognise their contribution and share their story with the nation.

The Kudu Awards recognise excellence across a broad spectrum of conservation contributions.

Nominations are invited in the following categories:

• Corporate: Businesses that demonstrate outstanding commitment to conservation, sustainability, environmental stewardship or support for SANParks and protected areas.
• Non-Governmental Organisations: Organisations whose programmes, advocacy, research or community work have made a meaningful contribution to conservation and biodiversity.
• Media Contribution to Conservation and Eco-Tourism: Journalists, editors, broadcasters, photographers, filmmakers, digital content creators and media organisations whose work informs, educates and inspires the public on conservation, biodiversity, wildlife and responsible tourism.
• Community Contribution to Conservation: Community members, groups or traditional structures whose efforts support conservation, environmental stewardship and sustainable livelihoods.
• Environmental Education: Educators, institutions and programmes that inspire environmental awareness and help cultivate the next generation of conservation leaders.
• Individual Contribution to Conservation: Individuals whose dedication, leadership and actions have made a significant contribution to conservation and South Africa’s natural heritage.
• Professional Stakeholders: Researchers, scientists, conservation practitioners and other professionals whose expertise has advanced conservation knowledge, policy or management.
• Associated Partners: Organisations and institutions that have demonstrated exceptional collaboration and partnership in support of SANParks’ mandate and conservation objectives.
• Women in Conservation: Women whose leadership, commitment and achievements are helping to shape the future of conservation.
• Youth in Conservation: Young people whose passion, innovation and action are making a positive contribution to conservation and environmental sustainability.
• Innovation: Individuals, organisations or partnerships that have introduced new ideas, technologies, solutions or practices that enhance conservation outcomes.

Nominations close on 19 September 2026. Winners will be honoured at the 2026 Kudu Awards ceremony to be held in November 2026 around Gauteng province. Nomination forms and entry information are available at Kudu Awards 2026 Call for Nominations.

Behind every conservation success story is a person, community or organisation that chose to make a difference. Help us recognise them. Nominate your conservation hero today.