Women Who Shaped - And Who Are Currently Shaping - Conservation in Africa

Africa’s wilderness is a place of raw beauty, untamed landscapes, and extraordinary wildlife - ask me, I’ve seen it all (almost). But beyond the stunning scenery and iconic species, there’s a deeper story—one of passion, courage, and dedication. Some of the most significant contributions to conservation on this continent have come from remarkable women who defied the odds, broke barriers, and changed the world in ways we still feel today.

As the founder and ‘SHE-O’ of Anywhere in Africa Safaris, I am constantly inspired by these pioneering women. Their legacy not only preserves Africa’s natural wonders but also ignites a passion in all of us who strive to protect and celebrate this remarkable land.

Here are several women whose impact on African conservation is undeniable:

Dian Fossey – The Guardian of Gorillas

When we think of mountain gorilla conservation, the name Dian Fossey stands tall. Her groundbreaking work in Rwanda’s Virunga Mountains in the 1960s brought the plight of these magnificent primates to the world’s attention. Living among them, she developed a deep bond, proving that conservation isn’t just about protecting species—it’s about understanding them.

Dian's fierce battle against poaching and habitat destruction came at great personal cost, yet her determination laid the foundation for gorilla conservation efforts that continue today. Thanks to her work and the ongoing efforts of organizations like the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, mountain gorilla populations are slowly rebounding, offering hope for the future of these gentle giants.

Dr. Jane Goodall – The Voice of Chimpanzees

Few names are as synonymous with primate conservation as Dr. Jane Goodall who turns 91 years old this month (April 2025)! Arriving in Tanzania’s Gombe Stream National Park in 1960, Goodall revolutionized our understanding of chimpanzees. She observed their tool-making abilities, social structures, and emotional depth, forever changing the way we see our closest relatives in the animal kingdom.

Beyond her scientific discoveries, Jane's real legacy is her unwavering commitment to conservation. Through the Jane Goodall Institute, she has inspired generations to take action—whether through habitat protection, community-led conservation, or youth education. Her message is clear: "every individual can make a difference. We believe that every individual ‘should’ make a difference, it’s no longer a choice, but a responsibility and sustainable tourism is the answer!"

Karen Blixen – The Storyteller Who Shared Africa with the World

While not a traditional conservationist, Karen Blixen played a vital role in shaping how the world saw Africa. Her memoir Out of Africa painted a poetic and evocative picture of Kenya’s landscapes, its wildlife, and its people. By sharing her love for the continent, she stirred the imaginations of countless readers, fostering an appreciation for Africa’s beauty and fragility. And while some today may criticize her writing, we must be cognisant to view her work through the lens of the time.

Karen's influence endures through the Karen Blixen Museum in Nairobi and conservation efforts linked to the land she once farmed. Her storytelling helped plant the seeds of conservation awareness, proving that sometimes, love for a place can be just as powerful as scientific research in driving change.

Dr. Paula Kahumbu – Champion for Elephants

Dr. Paula Kahumbu is one of Africa’s leading voices in elephant conservation. As the CEO of WildlifeDirect, she spearheads campaigns to protect Africa’s elephants from poaching and habitat loss. Her work in education and policy advocacy has been instrumental in reducing ivory trade in Kenya and beyond.

Paula's efforts extend beyond the field—her series Wildlife Warriors showcases African conservationists making a difference, inspiring a new generation to take up the cause. Her relentless fight for elephant protection has made her a beacon of hope for Africa’s wildlife.

Beverley Joubert – Storytelling for Conservation

Beverley Joubert, alongside her husband Dereck, co-founded Great Plains Conservation, an organization dedicated to preserving Africa’s wilderness through sustainable tourism - and a collection of luxury lodges we often include in our bespoke itineraries. As an award-winning filmmaker, photographer, and conservationist, she has used storytelling to bring attention to big cat conservation, rhino protection, and the delicate balance of Africa’s ecosystems.

Her work not only raises awareness but also funds critical conservation projects. Through the Big Cats Initiative with National Geographic, Beverly has helped implement programs that safeguard lions, leopards, and cheetahs across Africa.

Francoise Malby-Anthony – Protector of Thula Thula’s Wildlife

Francoise Malby-Anthony took on the mission of running Thula Thula, a private game reserve in South Africa, after the passing of her husband, Lawrence Anthony. She continued his conservation work, protecting elephants and other wildlife while fostering a deep connection between the reserve and local communities.

Her dedication to conservation, particularly her fight against poaching and her commitment to rescuing orphaned elephants, has cemented her legacy as a leading woman in African wildlife protection.

Claudine André – Saving the Bonobos

Claudine André founded Lola ya Bonobo, the world’s only sanctuary dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of bonobos. These incredible primates, found only in the Democratic Republic of Congo, are among our closest relatives yet remain one of the least understood great apes.

Through her sanctuary, Claudine has given countless orphaned bonobos a second chance while educating the public about their importance. Her work has been pivotal in shifting conservation focus to these gentle, intelligent creatures and their rapidly disappearing rainforest habitat.

Dr. Rebeca Atencia – Leading Primate Conservation

Dr. Rebeca Atencia, a leading veterinarian and conservationist, is the Executive Director of the Jane Goodall Institute in the Republic of Congo. She has been instrumental in the rehabilitation of rescued chimpanzees and oversees the largest sanctuary for orphaned chimps in Africa.

Her work combines medical expertise with hands-on conservation, ensuring that primates rescued from the illegal wildlife trade get a second chance at life. Her dedication to primate welfare and environmental education continues to inspire conservationists worldwide. 

As taken directly from Dr. Jane Goodall Institute’s website: “Dr. Rebeca Atencia of the JGI’s Tchimpounga Chimpanzee Rehabilitation Center in the Republic of Congo has pioneered the Chimpanzee Welfare Index for captive chimpanzees and we work collaboratively and through constructive dialogue, to promote the highest standards and best practices in captive care.”

To find out more, watch the "Rescued Chimpanzees of the Congo with Jane Goodall" documentary series showing Rebeca - find the series here.

Continuing Their Legacy

The work of these incredible women is far from over. Today, Africa’s wildlife faces increasing threats, from habitat loss to climate change. But these women’s pioneering passions live on in our future conservationists, rangers, researchers, and storytellers who continue to fight for Africa’s future.

At Anywhere in Africa Safaris, we believe in responsible travel that respects and supports conservation efforts. When you journey with us, you don’t just witness Africa’s wonders—you become part of its story, helping to protect its landscapes and wildlife for generations to come.

These women have taught us that one voice, one act of courage, and one deep connection to nature can make all the difference. Let’s honor their legacy by being stewards of this extraordinary continent we love so much.

Of course, there are so many more women making a huge impact in Africa, but take a look at our social channels where we often shine a light on individuals who are far greater than our boutique travel agency, and who are doing incredible work in Africa. 

If you'd like to see my thoughts on women in conservation please watch my latest reel here.

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