FreeMe Wildlife, SHIELD win 2026 Eco-Logic Awards for nature conservation

FreeMe Wildlife and the SHIELD Elephant Shepherd Programme have been honoured with awards at the 2026 Eco-Logic Awards for their conservation efforts that prioritize both wildlife and human communities. FreeMe Wildlife was awarded Gold in the Nature Conservation category, while the SHIELD programme received Bronze. The awards highlight a shift in conservation approaches from simply preventing harm to actively promoting long-term sustainability.

FreeMe Wildlife's spokesperson, Tamlyn Peta Caine, noted that the Gold award recognized the organization's collaborative approach to conservation, which includes habitat protection, species reintroduction, wildlife crime support, research, and community education. The group works closely with authorities such as Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, the SAPS Stock Theft Unit, and the NSPCA.

Caine emphasized that conservation is crucial for South Africa's economy and people's wellbeing, as it provides essential services like clean air, water, and healthy soils. The SHIELD Elephant Shepherd Programme, which won Bronze, focuses on coexistence between elephants and human communities by protecting elephant corridors and supporting local livelihoods through measures like beehive fences and alternative income opportunities.

Dr. Michelle Henley, the programme's spokesperson, emphasized that coexistence must benefit both elephants and the communities they share their environment with. Both organizations hope the recognition will bolster their efforts to expand their work, attract new partnerships, and train more Elephant Shepherds.