Alvin Kaunda, the KBC nature journalist whose video went viral worldwide, will enjoy a fully paid three-day trip to Maasai Mara National Reserve.
The journalist was rewarded the exclusive deal by the Expeditions Maasai Safaris founder and Chief Executive Officer Pancras Karema on the evening of Saturday, November 19.
The journalist will visit the park alongside his cameraperson.
In a statement, Pancras also committed to mentor the young reporter in his quest to be an outstanding wildlife journalist.
"The travel agency will be sponsoring him and his cameraperson for a 3-day safari in Kenya’s most famous game reserve, the Masai Mara," read the statement in part.
While accepting the reward, the journalist expressed his love for wildlife noting that his reporting was aimed at boosting conservation efforts in Kenya.
"While at the Shedrick Trust, I got to appreciate the incredible work wildlife conservationists to protect our wildlife. I wish to encourage everyone visiting Kenya to support conservation efforts led by Dr. Paula Kahumbu and other great Kenyans.
"I hope my viral video will encourage for people to protect and care for the wildlife especially at a time Kenya is experiencing unprecedented drought," he stated.
Expeditions Maasai Safaris Ceo, Pancras Karema, commended the journalist and encouraged him to continue raising awareness on wildlife conservation.
"We are proud of your determination to report on the importance of protecting our endangered species even during difficult circumstances.
"As a Champion of sustainable tourism, we recognize and appreciate the role of journalism in supporting these important conservation efforts in our parks and reserves," Karema stated.
Kaunda went viral after a clip of an adopted elephant interrupting his piece to camera was quickly picked up by both local and international media houses.
After Kenyans.co.ke first interviewed the journalist, other media outlets that highlighted the story include Washington Post, New York Post, USA Today, CNN and The Independent among others.
