Conservationists honored at the awards
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.
SKUKUZA – The South African National Parks (SANParks) supported by FNB recognised deserving conservationists at the 9th annual Kudu Awards ceremony held at CSIR Convention Centre in Pretoria on Friday.
According to Dr David Mabunda, SANParks CEO, “The Kudu Awards (and Chief Executive Awards) is an important initiative which recognises external stakeholders for their contribution and internal stakeholders for efforts in making SANParks the custodian of choice for the national parks system. SANParks also plays a significant role in the conservation of biodiversity and cultural heritage, thus protecting South Africa’s most valuable national assets.”
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 vision of ‘SANParks connecting to society’.”
Mr Danny Zandamela, CEO of FNB’s public-sector banking, added that the Kudu Awards were fundamental to the practice of recognising, acknowledging and praising the people who have, over the years, created and maintained a conducive and enabling environment for nature conservation projects to be managed effectively. He further expressed that the individuals that have been recognised are at the forefront of inspiring, educating and mobilising their peers through their commitment to environmental issues.
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 (Chief Executive Officer’s Awards) was granted to Alex Brooks from Table Mountain National Park (TMNP).
Dr Mabunda said, “Alex has given 48 years of service to SANParks and he is totally dedicated to his park. He has been instrumental in not just the upgrades of the tourism facilities but the maintenance of these sites to ensure that the 800 000 visitors we receive at Cape Point every year have the best possible experience in our facilities.”
The Awards evening also saw SANParks staff members being rewarded through the Chief Executive Awards. A total of 16 Chief Executive Awards were given out this year.
