South African organization, Wildlife ACT, achieves global recognition for ‘Best for Nature-Positive Tourism’ at the WTM World Responsible Tourism Awards, showcasing the continent’s leadership in responsible travel.
KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (10 November 2023) – In a significant triumph for South African conservation, Wildlife ACT, a dedicated organization based in KwaZulu-Natal, has clinched the coveted first place for ‘Best for Nature-Positive Tourism’ at the esteemed WTM World Responsible Tourism Awards for 2023, hosted by the Responsible Tourism Partnership.
This remarkable achievement follows Wildlife ACT’s earlier Gold win at the WTM Africa World Responsible Tourism Awards, propelling them into the pool of global contenders. Notably, five out of the eight award categories were dominated by African organizations, underscoring the continent’s prowess in responsible tourism.
These awards serve as a beacon, illuminating the path of responsible and sustainable tourism practices within the travel industry. By bestowing recognition upon trailblazers like Wildlife ACT, they inspire others to adopt ethical approaches to tourism.
Megan De Jager, Portfolio Director – Travel, Tourism & RX Africa Marketing, emphasizes the pivotal role of these awards: “The WTM World Responsible Tourism Awards not only showcase the best of the best in responsible tourism but set the compass for our global industry in creating sustainable travel and holiday experiences.”
Wildlife ACT: A Beacon of Conservation Excellence
Wildlife ACT, nestled in the heart of KwaZulu-Natal, stands as a beacon of conservation excellence. Specializing in on-the-ground endangered species conservation, daily monitoring of priority species, management of human-wildlife conflict, and community involvement in conservation, the organization has earned its stripes.
The spotlight is on critically endangered species like the African Wild Dog, Black Rhino, and six Vulture species in South Africa, some facing the brink of extinction. Wildlife ACT, through its unique voluntourism model, has provided free professional monitoring services to over ten Zululand protected areas for 15 years. Their impact extends beyond borders, contributing to endangered species management across Africa and the restoration of North Island, Seychelles.
Johan Maree, Co-Founder and Director of Wildlife ACT, expresses pride in the team: “This award is a reflection of their passion and dedication.” He extends gratitude to the volunteers, acknowledging their pivotal role in making a meaningful contribution to the projects.
Community Conservation: Bridging the Gaps
Wildlife ACT understands that true conservation goes beyond protected areas. Bridging the gap between communities and wildlife, their Community Conservation Programme fosters participation and strengthens understanding. This program not only highlights the intrinsic value of nature but also underscores the economic opportunities within the conservation sector.
The global acclaim for ‘Best Nature-Positive Tourism’ emphasizes the synergy between Wildlife ACT’s voluntourism and community conservation models, seamlessly complementing the vital work undertaken by their dedicated team.
Johan Maree concludes, “Without your hands-on involvement, Wildlife ACT simply would not have been able to achieve the same level of impact over the last 15 years.”
This accolade is not just a feather in the cap for Wildlife ACT but also a resounding endorsement for South Africa and the entire continent. Africa’s commitment to responsible tourism shines bright, making it a destination of choice for conscientious travellers.
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