More than 30 conservation officers and rangers from the Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA) have been awarded certificates and cash prizes in recognition of their outstanding service, bravery and commitment to protecting Tanzania’s wildlife and forest resources.
The awards were presented on Friday during celebrations marking World Ranger Day, an annual event dedicated to recognising the contribution of wildlife rangers and honouring those who have lost their lives or been injured while on duty.
This year’s event also paid tribute to 10 rangers who either died or sustained injuries while carrying out conservation duties in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Speaking at the ceremony, NCAA Deputy Commissioner for Conservation Services, Aidan Makala, praised rangers for their dedication in safeguarding the country’s natural heritage despite the challenges associated with the profession.
He called on conservation officers to continue strengthening cooperation with local communities and other law enforcement agencies to enhance the protection of wildlife and natural ecosystems.
“Rangers are the frontline defenders of our wildlife and forest resources. Their work extends beyond fighting poaching to protecting water catchments, preventing environmental degradation, mitigating human-wildlife conflicts and educating communities on sustainable conservation practices,” he said.
Mr Makala noted that effective conservation increasingly depends on collaboration between authorities and communities living around protected areas.
World Ranger Day was established in 2007 by the International Ranger Federation (IRF) in partnership with conservation organisations worldwide to recognise the vital role played by rangers and commemorate those who have lost their lives in the line of duty.
Speaking during the event, the Chief Conservation Officer responsible for Protection Services, Emmanuel Kaaya, said the day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by rangers in protecting biodiversity and natural resources for future generations.
“It is a day to honour the men and women who dedicate their lives to ensuring that protected areas remain secure and continue benefiting both current and future generations,” he said.
Meanwhile, Senior Assistant Conservation Commissioner Gloria Bideberi said the authority had recognised more than 30 employees for exemplary performance during the 2025/26 financial year.
She said the awards were intended to motivate staff and promote a culture of professionalism, commitment and excellence within the conservation service.
The celebrations were also marked by sporting and recreational activities, including football matches, fitness exercises, traditional games and demonstrations by various ranger units.
World Ranger Day is observed annually across the globe to highlight the contribution of rangers to conservation and environmental protection, while honouring those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the course of their duties.
