UDSM Mourns the Passing of Dr. Jane Goodall: A Cherished Friend of Mlimani, a Beacon of Conservation
By a Special Correspondent, CoNAS
The University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM), particularly the College of Natural and Applied Sciences (CoNAS), joins the world in mourning the passing of Dr. Jane Goodall in September 2025, at the age of 91.
Famed globally as Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) and United Nations Messenger of Peace, she was the founder of the Jane Goodall Institute. She was a renowned primatologist, anthropologist, and conservationist whose pioneering studies in Tanzania revolutionised our understanding of the natural world.
Dr. Goodall’s remarkable scientific journey started in 1960 when, at only 26 years old, she traveled to the shores of Lake Tanganyika. There, in what is now Gombe National Park, she began her pioneering research into the lives of wild chimpanzees.
Her ground-breaking discoveries, uncovering the complex social structures, tool use, and emotional connections in chimpanzee communities, permanently changed the way humans view animals and made her one of the most important scientists of our era.
Professor Flora Magige, Principal of the College of Natural and Applied Sciences (CoNAS), paid tribute, describing Dr. Goodall as “a titan of conservation and an inspiration to generations of scientists in Tanzania and across the globe.”
“Jane Goodall’s work placed Tanzania at the very heart of global wildlife research,” Professor Magige stated.
She added: “Her contributions transcended scientific discovery, igniting a worldwide consciousness about the imperative to conserve nature. We at UDSM shall forever cherish her profound connection with our institution.”
This connection dates to the early 1980s, when Dr. Goodall became a regular visitor to the Department of Zoology and Wildlife Conservation, delivering inspiring seminars to staff and students. Her most memorable engagement came on 13th February 2018, when she graced the university to deliver a public lecture entitled, “Every Individual Makes a Difference – Every Day.”
On that momentous occasion, she officially launched the UDSM Roots & Shoots Club and planted a Trichilia emetica (Mdodoma) tree, which today stands tall as a living, growing symbol of her enduring legacy.
Conservation as a moral responsibility
Heads of department within CoNAS also shared their reflections, highlighting her profound moral influence. Dr. Flora Stephano, Head of the Department of Zoology and Wildlife Conservation, noted, “Jane Goodall compelled our students to see conservation not merely as a scientific discipline, but as a moral responsibility. The Roots & Shoots Club she inaugurated continues to remind us that every single action carries weight.”
Echoing this sentiment, Professor Samora Macrice Andrew, Head of the Department of Botany, remarked, “The tree she planted here has grown strong and resilient, much like the values she instilled in young people worldwide: care, responsibility, and steadfast stewardship for our natural world.”
Beyond the academic sphere, Dr. Goodall’s vision gave rise to the Jane Goodall Institute in 1977 and the Roots & Shoots youth programme in 1991. What began with just 12 students in Dar es Salaam has blossomed into a global movement in over 75 countries, empowering millions of young people to enact positive change for animals, the environment, and their communities.
“Her life’s work has left an indelible mark upon humanity,” said Professor Magige. “We celebrate her monumental legacy and reaffirm our commitment to advancing her vision of a more compassionate and harmonious world for all living beings.”
The University of Dar es Salaam extends its most heartfelt condolences to the Jane Goodall Institute, Dr. Goodall’s family, and the global conservation fraternity.
Rest in peace, Dr Jane Goodall. Your light will continue to guide generations to come.