Feature: Jane Goodall, whose Tanzania research reshaped primatology, dies at 91

by Xinhua writers Hua Hongli, Lucas Liganga

DAR ES SALAAM, Oct. 2 (Xinhua) -- The world is mourning Jane Goodall, the renowned ethologist, primatologist, and conservationist, who died Wednesday at 91. Her pioneering research in Tanzania's Gombe National Park reshaped scientific understanding of chimpanzees and helped spark a global movement for environmental stewardship.

Goodall arrived in western Tanzania in 1960, a young researcher with no formal scientific training but an insatiable curiosity about the natural world. Her immersive fieldwork along the shores of Lake Tanganyika led to discoveries that challenged long-held beliefs, including the use of tools by chimpanzees, intricate social bonds, and emotional intelligence once thought exclusive to humans.

"Jane Goodall was a pioneer conservationist who revolutionized our understanding of chimpanzees," said Godwell Ole Meing'ataki, assistant conservation commissioner at Ruaha National Park. "Her work significantly contributed to conservation in Tanzania and inspired generations worldwide."

Environmental journalist Deogratius Mfugale noted that Goodall's legacy transcends primatology. "She painted the bigger picture on the importance of conserving the environment so that all living things can thrive," he said.

The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Tanzania echoed the sentiment. "Her lifelong dedication to humanity, wildlife, and biodiversity has inspired generations and transformed the way the world understands conservation," said Amani Ngusaru, country director at the WWF.

Goodall's groundbreaking observations, from chimpanzee hunting behavior to their capacity for compassion, laid the foundation for modern primatology and influenced diverse fields such as human health, ecology, and evolutionary biology.

Her most famous discovery, that chimpanzees use tools, was hailed as a moment that "redefined humankind," according to a statement from the Jane Goodall Institute.

Founded by Goodall herself, the institute has grown into a global force for conservation, community development, and youth empowerment. Its work continues to reflect her belief that protecting nature is inseparable from uplifting people.

"Jane's findings also influenced fields of human health, evolution, and ecology. Her passion and ingenuity made Jane a singular figure in scientific and philosophical thought," the institute said.

"Goodall's life and work not only made an indelible mark on our understanding of chimpanzees and other species, but also of humankind and the environments we all share," added the statement.

Goodall died of natural causes in Los Angeles while on a speaking tour in the United States, the institute confirmed in the statement.

As Tanzania honors a cherished friend and the world reflects on her legacy, Goodall is remembered not only as a scientist but as a visionary whose compassion and courage reshaped humanity's relationship with the natural world. Enditem