#FFNnominees2024 Takudzwa Mutezo using the law to advocate for pangolins in Zimbabwe

As a legal advisor employed by a conservation non-profit in Zimbabwe, the Tikki Hywood Foundation (THF), Takudzwa Samantha Mutezo is using the law to stop and punish animal trafficking. Her main focus is on the pangolin, a sacred creature in her culture, but a wanted one in others. Using the law as her tool, Takudzwa drafted and advocated legislation for a minimum mandatory sentence of nine years for crimes against specially protected and endangered species, like pangolins. She also co-authored “The Handbook for Prosecuting Wildlife Crimes”, which has been distributed to more than 50,000 rangers, police, prosecutors, and judiciary, and developed the first virtual training alongside a mobile application that simplified wildlife law and criminal procedure. These efforts translated into a 90% conviction rate for crimes involving pangolins and transformed THF into a global leader in pangolin conservation. Should Takudzwa win the 2024 FFN Award, she would modify, change, and advance wildlife laws to protect the pangolin by developing a Model Wildlife Code. Wildlife trafficking does not only affect the pangolins, but also other species, human livelihoods, public health, and the natural environment. The Code will regulate and contain provisions that should be included in wildlife legislation, ensuring that pangolins and other wildlife species are being protected by the law. About the Future For Nature: The Future For Nature Foundation (FFN) supports young, talented, and ambitious nature conservationists committed to protecting species of wild animals and plants. We believe in the power of the individual. Therefore, we select a new generation of nature conservationists who we believe make a difference in the future of nature. Natural leaders who inspire and with their drive and ‘stubbornness’ achieve impressive results. Annually, we put three of these promising young people in the spotlight. Find us on Facebook:   / futurefornature   Instagram:   / ffnfoundation   Twitter:   / futurefornature   Or our website: https://futurefornature.org/ Don't forget to subscribe to stay up-to-date!