Recipients honoured for commitment to coexistence with elephants
The Elephant-Human Coexistence Award 2025 presented the opportunity to celebrate the "remarkable individuals who have demonstrated resilience, dedication and a deep commitment to coexisting with elephants despite the many challenges they face"."They have each shown extraordinary perseverance, whether through maintaining their gardens as a vital source of sustenance, implementing innovative mitigation strategies, or actively contributing to conservation efforts, like keeping the elephant dam clean," the Elephant-Human Relations Aid (EHRA) noted. Among those recognised were Isak Mate and Mathilde Mbandje from the Omatjete area; Liza Zomenje and Johannes Shipalanga from Fransfontein !Khoro !Goreb Conservancy and Anna Gurises and Else !Naibas (94) from Sorris Sorris Conservancy.
"We celebrate these individuals who take initiative in solving the coexistence challenge. Their spirit reflects the true essence of peaceful coexistence, proving that human communities and elephants can thrive together," EHRA stated.
"EHRA is honoured to recognise their efforts, and we remain committed to supporting individuals like them who inspire sustainable solutions and foster harmony between people and wildlife."
EHRA Namibia has helped build peaceful relationships between free-roaming desert elephants and local communities in Namibia since 2003.
"Conflict exists due to shared land, resources and an ongoing drought in the region, which leaves communities and animals without much food or water. Elephants, livestock and humans are sharing the same water points, which not only sparks conflict but also results in human and elephant fatalities," the organisation stated.
EHRA's mission is to implement practical solutions that help combat elephant-human conflict and thereby secure a future for Namibia's desert elephants. "We do this through building protective walls around water points, educating locals on conflict mitigation tactics and continuous monitoring of the different elephant herds."