Two Kenyan conservationists nominated for wildlife global awards

The rare hirola in the wild. [File, Standard]

Two Kenyan conservationists have been nominated for one of the world’s leading animal conservation awards known as Indianapolis Prize.

 The two Kenyan-based conservationists, Issa Gedi and Richard Bonham, were recognised among 31 other wildlife conservationists across the globe for their innovative research and scientific advances in conservation of wildlife.

The nominations, were announced on October 22 where the winner will receive Sh25 million and top five finalists each bagging Sh1 million.

Indianapolis Zoo President Dr Rob Shumaker, in a statement, said the nominees showcase finest conservation work and that their achievements have been highlighted across the world.

"These remarkable Nominees are responsible for some of the finest conservation work occurring on our planet today. They lead, protect, inspire, and offer hope for everyone who cares about the natural world," said Dr. Shumaker noted.

Issa Gedi, a conservationist working with the Northern Rangelands Trust at Ishaqbini Hirola Community Conservancy and Sanctuary is praised for his role in conservation of hirola antelopes. His efforts, is said to have drastically led to increase in numbers of the hirolas in the sanctuary that hosts 20 percent of the world’s species.

“Leader in the conservation of the world’s most endangered antelope: the hirola. Successfully increased numbers, mobilized community and governmental support, and eliminated predation and poaching in the sanctuary, where 20 percent of the global hirola population resides,” noted a statement by Indianapolis.

Hirolas, the world’s most endangered antelopes, are categorized as Critically Endangered, according to International Union for Conservation and Nature. The hirolas, are restricted to small areas along Kenya-Somali border and although legal protection by Kenya and Somali governments has been in place since 1970, their population has plummeted, experiencing a 95 percent decline in the past four decades. Currently, it is believed that the population of hirola antelopes is less than 500 individuals.

Richard Bonham, the co-founder of Big Life Foundation Kenya is recognized for his efforts in protecting elephants, black rhinos and lions in the Greater Amboseli ecosystem.

“Alongside Maasai field staff and rangers, he has led the arrest of hundreds of wildlife crime suspects, confiscated more than a ton of ivory from the illegal market and constructed wildlife fencing to reduce crop-raiding,” a statement noted.

The finalists and winner of this year’s prize will be honoured at the Indianapolis Prize Gala presented on September 12, 2020.