Nairobi, Kenya – Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (SWT) Chief Executive Officer Angela Sheldrick has been awarded the Elder of the Order of the Burning Spear (E.B.S.), Kenya’s highest civilian state decoration, in recognition of her exceptional contribution to wildlife conservation and community development.
The prestigious award was presented by President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi, during the national celebrations marking Jamhuri Day on December 12, 2025.
Angela Sheldrick’s leadership has been instrumental in transforming Sheldrick Wildlife Trust into one of the world’s most respected conservation institutions, blending scientific excellence, community engagement and innovative funding models to safeguard Kenya’s natural heritage.
Under her stewardship, the Trust has significantly expanded its Orphans’ Project, rescuing and rehabilitating more than 300 orphaned elephants. Notably, over 66 wild-born calves have since been recorded from former orphans successfully reintroduced into the wild, marking a rare and powerful example of a self-sustaining, rewilded elephant population.
In habitat protection, Sheldrick has overseen conservation efforts spanning more than two million acres of wilderness across Kenya. Flagship initiatives include a 25-year agreement to manage the KARI Ranch and a 30-year conservation concession in Kibwezi Forest, securing critical ecosystems for future generations.
Her tenure has also seen major investment in veterinary and aerial operations, with the Trust’s mobile veterinary units expanded to six, covering key wildlife regions such as the Rift Valley and Meru. The SWT Aerial Unit, now operating seven aircraft, flies thousands of hours annually in anti-poaching patrols, wildlife surveillance and emergency response.
To address escalating human–wildlife conflict, Angela Sheldrick has championed the installation of over 450 kilometres of electric fencing, safeguarding farming communities while preserving vital wildlife migration corridors.
A pioneer of conservation technology, she co-designed the world’s first digital fostering programme in 2001, a breakthrough innovation that revolutionised global conservation fundraising and public engagement, allowing supporters worldwide to directly participate in wildlife protection.
Beyond wildlife, her work has placed communities at the centre of conservation success. Through SWT-supported initiatives, including a school feeding programme in rural Tsavo, more than 16,500 children receive daily meals, reinforcing the link between community welfare, education and sustainable conservation.
The award, the Trust said, reflects not only Angela Sheldrick’s dedication but also the collective effort of the wider conservation family.
“This award belongs to the entire Sheldrick Wildlife Trust family. We are deeply grateful for this acknowledgement of our conservation efforts. Together, we continue our vital work,” the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust management said in a statement.
The E.B.S. honour marks a significant milestone for Kenya’s conservation community and reaffirms the country’s commitment to protecting wildlife, ecosystems and the people who depend on them.
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