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Honoring Mwezi Mugerwa: A Champion for African Wildlife

The Indianapolis Prize stands as the preeminent global recognition for animal conservation, and in its 2025 award cycle, it has bestowed the prestigious title of Emerging Conservationist on Mwezi "Badru" Mugerwa. This recognition highlights Mugerwa’s remarkable efforts in safeguarding the endangered African golden cat, reflecting his dedication to both wildlife and community welfare in Uganda.

A Rising Star in Conservation

Mugerwa, a Ugandan environmentalist and researcher, has made waves in the conservation community. As the founder and director of Embaka, a grassroots organization dedicated to environmental protection, he saw the urgent need to protect the African golden cat - a species often overlooked in conservation efforts. Under his leadership, Embaka launched Uganda’s first community-based anti-poaching initiative targeting this elusive feline, located in the vast Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park.

His accomplishments did not stop with creating Embaka. In an effort to strengthen collaboration among conservationists, Mugerwa established the African Golden Cat Conservation Alliance (AGCCA). This network of African citizens implements crucial conservation activities aimed at protecting the African golden cat across its natural habitat. Mugerwa also plays a vital role as the elected president of the Society for Conservation Biology Global and the Society for Conservation Biology's Africa section.

A Commitment to Local Communities

Dr. Rob Shumaker, President and CEO of the Indianapolis Zoological Society, praised Mugerwa’s deep commitment to involving local communities in conservation efforts. He stated, “Mwezi’s passion for community engagement makes him a deserving recipient of this award. It is a privilege to recognize him with the Indianapolis Prize 2025 for emerging conservation.”

Mugerwa’s journey began with innovative research methods, using camera traps to study the African golden cat. Initially, this elusive species was shrouded in mystery, with little understanding of its habits or population status. Through collaboration with local communities, Mugerwa identified poaching as a key threat to the species. He found that the cat often fell victim to snares set for bushmeat, causing significant declines in its population.

Embaka, founded in 2015, revolutionizes the approach to community-led conservation. The organization runs various programs, offering initiatives from free dental care to credit and savings assistance for families pledging not to poach. This community-focused strategy has attracted over 2,225 local members who actively support the conservation of the African golden cat.

Bridging Conservation and Daily Life

Mugerwa’s philosophy is clear: living close to a national park is not a burden, but an opportunity. He articulates the importance of creating a connection between wildlife conservation and local livelihoods. He explains, "Once people understand the direct benefits they can gain, such as access to a dentist, they begin to see conservation efforts in a new light." He emphasizes the necessity of communication in uncovering community-held solutions that will combat poaching effectively.

In a groundbreaking move, Mugerwa and his team are integrating artificial intelligence into their research. By analyzing data from photographic traps, they are implementing a standardized observation model for the African golden cat across 19 African nations. This technological advancement is expected to bolster their understanding and conservation strategies for the species.

Future of Conservation

Mugerwa emerged as the awardee after a thorough selection process, distinguishing himself among ten finalists in October 2024. The Emerging Conservationist Award was established through a generous contribution from the Kobe Foundation.

In addition to recognizing Mugerwa, the Indianapolis Prize will announce its main 2025 winner in May, with a significant $250,000 award slated for the efforts in wildlife conservation. The winners will be celebrated in a gala event hosted by Cummins Inc. in downtown Indianapolis on September 27, 2025.

The Indianapolis Prize continues to highlight significant achievements in animal conservation, with over $7 million awarded since its inception to support conservation leaders worldwide. For more information on Mugerwa and the Indianapolis Prize, visit IndianapolisPrize.org.