Conservationists Laurie Marker and Marlice van Vuuren from Namibia have been nominated for the prestigious 2027 Indianapolis Prize. Marker, a renowned zoologist and researcher, founded the Cheetah Conservation Fund (CCF). Van Vuuren co-founded and directs the N/a’ankusê Foundation. The Indianapolis Prize, established in 2004, is a top honour in animal conservation, providing recognition, visibility, and financial support to drive conservation impact globally.
Van Vuuren's nomination recognises her work at the N/a’ankusê Wildlife Sanctuary and medical clinic. Her efforts focus on protecting and relocating large carnivores to reduce human-wildlife conflict. The N/a’ankusê Foundation has made significant conservation strides, safeguarding 50,000 hectares of land with anti-poaching units. These units have patrolled over 30,000km on foot, aided by more than 60 rangers, and responded to 441 conflict cases involving over 1,000 farmers.
The N/a’ankusê Foundation's initiatives have achieved notable conservation impact. By protecting wildlife and promoting coexistence, the foundation has given wildlife a second chance and supported farmers. The foundation's work represents people labouring in challenging conditions, communities and animals being given a better chance to coexist. The nomination of Van Vuuren and Marker has sparked pride in Namibia, with many recognising their contributions to conservation.
Marker was nominated for her community initiatives, which introduced livestock-guarding dogs to farmers in Namibia. This programme, run by the Cheetah Conservation Fund, helps protect livestock while reducing the need to remove cheetahs from their environments. Marker expressed her honour at being named among the 27 conservationists nominated for the 2027 Indianapolis Prize, a leading award for animal conservation.
With over 30 years of dedication to understanding and protecting cheetahs, Marker has worked alongside Namibian communities to find solutions for coexistence. Her work encompasses studying cheetah genetics, biology, and behaviour. Marker is grateful for the recognition of conservation efforts aimed at preventing species extinction. The Indianapolis Prize will narrow the nominees to six DeHaan finalists, with the 2027 winner to be announced next September.
The Indianapolis Prize has been driving conservation impact since its inception in 2004. By recognising and supporting conservationists, the prize aims to promote effective conservation strategies. Marker's and Van Vuuren's nominations highlight Namibia's contributions to global conservation efforts. Their work with local communities and wildlife has been instrumental in promoting coexistence and protecting endangered species.
The recognition of Marker and Van Vuuren's work serves as a testament to the impact of conservation efforts in Namibia. As the selection process unfolds, the conservation community eagerly awaits the announcement of the 2027 Indianapolis Prize winner. The prize will not only honour the winner but also inspire continued conservation efforts globally.
Key points
- Local conservationists Laurie Marker and Marlice van Vuuren have been nominated for the 2027 Indianapolis Prize.
- The Indianapolis Prize is recognised as the highest honour in animal conservation.
- The prize aims to drive conservation impact through recognition, visibility, and financial support.
