NAIROBI, March 19 (Xinhua)-- China-based Paradise Foundation International (PFI) said on Monday it plans to award 50 African rangers who have excelled in wildlife protection.

PFI, the East African Wildlife Society (EAWLS) and the Mara Conservation Fund have published a notice in the Star Daily inviting nominations for the inaugural edition of the Paradise Ranger's Award.

Those eligible for the 3,000 U.S. dollars prize include wildlife wardens, forest guards, foresters, rangers, scouts, watchers and other frontline field staff working on wildlife, habitat and natural resource protection.

"EAWLS member organizations, national parks, wildlife reserves, conservancies and other entities that have game rangers on their staff are encouraged to submit their nominations," said the advertisement.

The award is the brainchild of Chinese entrepreneur Jack Ma, who visited Kenya in 2017 and promised to create a prize to recognize excellence among game rangers on the forefront of wildlife protection in Africa.

PFI is a Chinese conservation organization led by co-chairman Pony Ma and Jack Ma.

According to the organizers of the award, applicants must be active rangers and citizens of an African country.

The winners will be selected on the basis of the threats and challenges overcome, impact, commitment and dedication, leadership and inspiration as well as length of service.

The Paradise Ranger Awards aims to raise awareness about the need to conserve Africa's wildlife resources.