Black Mambas Sergeant Nkateko Letti Mzimba has won the Conservation ‘Oscar’ after being awarded as the Best Field Ranger in Africa! This is a huge deal not only for our country’s conservation efforts but for all female rangers past, present and future who fight for recognition in a male-dominated field.
Africa (18 September 2023)—In incredible news for South African conservation efforts and women rangers, Nkateko Letti Mzimba, Sergeant of the Black Mambas Unit has been awarded the Field Rangers’ ‘Oscar’!
Sergeant Mzimba beat out some of the continent’s most dedicated and respected field rangers to earn the Best Field Ranger Award, and we couldn’t sing her praises louder.
The African Conservation Awards combed through 60 nominations from 11 countries across the African continent to spotlight finalists across several fields, including Best Game Ranger, Best Conservation Supporter, Best Conservation Team and of course, Best Field Ranger.
The Awards are a highlight on many nature heroes’ calendars, not least because their tireless (and often unsung efforts) are seen and appreciated, but also because they remind our continent that for all the hard-hitting statistics we face in conservation news, there are everyday heroes on the path of protection.
Sergeant Mzimba’s win, then, is both a win for South African boots on the ground and women in the field quite literally. Having a female sergeant hold the coveted Best Field Ranger award is a huge nod to progress in a predominantly male field, and testament that field ranger work (and excellence) is not gender-restricted per outdated mindsets.

Of her efforts both in and beyond the field, the African Conservation Awards shared:
“Nkateko Letti Mzimba is a shining example of dedication and leadership in conservation. Her journey, beginning in 2014, reflects unwavering commitment and leadership that extends beyond routine patrols.
Nkateko serves as a vigilant guardian of rhinos and other endangered species, diligently removing snares to protect wildlife. She also extends her caring hand to local communities, providing essential food and educational resources, and passionately [educates] the community’s children about the importance of protecting nature.”
This wasn’t the only big win for South Africa with Rhino Man winning Best Conservation Supporter for its 8-year film production that sheds light on the courageous local rangers who risk everything to protect rhinos from extinction.

The documentary is a window into the lives of unsung heroes including the late Anton Mzimba who dedicated his life to safeguarding the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve.