TUSK WILDLIFE RANGER AWARD
WINNER 2024
Claver Ntoyinkima
Rwanda
Claver Ntoyinkima is an inspiring ranger leader and role model for his dedicated work in Rwanda’s Nyungwe National Park. Born and raised in the village of Banda, near the park’s periphery, Claver’s early experiences in the forest instilled in him a passion for the natural world. As a child, he delighted in exploring the forest, seeking out elusive bird species and observing wildlife, laying the foundation for his lifelong commitment to conservation.
Fluent in English, French, and Kinyarwanda, Claver initially joined the Rwanda Development Board as a tourist receptionist. However, his heart belonged to the forest, and he trained diligently to become a park ranger and guide. In this role, Claver began on the anti-poaching team, playing a crucial part in removing snares and deterring illegal activities. Moreover, he also contributed to the habituation of primate populations, especially the park’s chimpanzees and black and white colobus monkeys, which now attract significant tourism.
Claver’s leadership extends beyond his immediate duties: he is a mentor to his peers, sharing knowledge and training new staff. His efforts have earned him deep respect and admiration not only within the park but also as a bridge between Nyungwe and its broader community, notably through the establishment of community guide training initiatives.
Committed to nurturing a love for nature in future generations, Claver has also founded youth conservation groups, including the Nyungwe Kids Birding Club in 2009, to teach bird identification and conservation to young people.
His expertise in bird conservation has led him to assist with research in various other parts of Rwanda, including a significant bird census in Gishwati Forest that resulted in a co-authored publication.
Claver’s continuous pursuit of knowledge, his kindness, and his enthusiasm make him a pillar of conservation, inspiring countless others to appreciate and protect the natural environment.
I am truly grateful to be a finalist for the 2024 Tusk Conservation Awards; there are no words to describe how proud I am to win this award. The acknowledgement of my dedication and efforts of giving back to the community is truly inspiring. I am very grateful for this historical support and recognition of the conservation efforts made by field-based actors like me
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