The presentation of awards, introduced in 2007 as part of the Etosha Centenary Celebrations, is a highlight of the MET's calendar year. They serve to recognise exceptional achievements by staff as nominated by their colleagues.
SPAN worked with the Directorate of Parks and Wildlife Management to introduce the Awards as incentives for field staff.
The number of award categories has grown from four to seven in the first five years of existence. Awards are usually announced by the Hon Minister at a glittering event in Windhoek. This is usually well - publicised and ensures that winners - many of whom have no idea that they are up for awards - receive the recognition they deserve.

Springbok Award

This is presented to field staff showing great potential, exceptional initiative and enthusiasm to succeed in biodiversity conservation. The individual should have been in full service of the Ministry for not more than three years. The award is open to all field staff or staff whose primary activity is conducted in the field.

(NEW)Flamingo Award

This award, introduced in 2011 to mark five years of the Award scheme, is presented to staff who deliver exceptional services to MET staff and clients. Nominees for this category are staff members working at gates, receptions offices; working with stock control or issuing permits; providing secretarial services or interacting with communities. It is awarded to an individual who displays consistent service delivery, friendliness, efficiency and professionalism. The award is open to all field staff or staff whose primary activity is conducted in the field or staff supporting field staff.

Welwitschia Award

This recognises the contribution of field staff to biodiversity conservation. It is awarded to an individual who has made noteworthy achievements and displays in terms of attributes such as initiative, diligence, commitment, training etc in the eyes of work mates and senior personnel alike. The individual will have demonstrated outstanding leadership qualities, high standard of performance and dedication to work. The award is open to all field staff or staff whose primary activity is conducted in the field.

Lionheart Award

This is presented to an individual who has shown great courage in the course of carrying out his/her duties on or off the job. The award recognizes an individual or group/team for a single incident/service not necessarily an act of bravery. Notable incidents/acts of service could be rescuing persons/ animals/ park from attack, whistle blowing, destroying problem animals such as elephants, crocodiles and buffalo in and outside parks. The award is open to all field staff or staff whose primary activity is conducted in the field. This can be any one who has the above mentioned qualities.

Elephant (MET Lifetime Achievement) Award

This is presented to a current or former MET employee who has worked within MET for 20 or more years. The individual should have made a positive and significant contribution to biodiversity conservation. The individual should have demonstrated outstanding leadership qualities, a high standard of performance and exceptional dedication