The world is mourning the loss of Dr. Jane Goodall, the renowned ethologist, conservationist, and founder of the Jane Goodall Institute, who passed away at the age of 91 while on her speaking tour in the United States .

For more than six decades, Dr. Goodall inspired the world with her groundbreaking research on wild chimpanzees in Tanzania, her tireless advocacy for the environment, and her unwavering belief that each of us has the power to make a difference. From her discovery that chimpanzees use tools — a revelation that redefined what it means to be human — to the creation of the Roots & Shoots youth movement now active in nearly 75 countries, her work shaped modern conservation and inspired generations.

In 2024, HOT 1027 and Hot Cares were privileged to spend time with Dr. Goodall at Chimp Eden, the sanctuary near Nelspruit that she founded to provide a safe haven for rescued chimpanzees.

It was also an immense honour to welcome Dr. Goodall to HOT House in Johannesburg — a visit that left a lasting impression on our team and underscored just how fortunate we were to spend time in her presence.

Speaking to us, she reflected on the deep emotional lives of chimpanzees:

“They share 98.7% of our DNA… showing happiness, sadness, fear, despair, anger, frustration — all the emotions we know as humans.”

She also spoke passionately about the Roots & Shoots movement, telling us how young people across the globe are rolling up their sleeves to tackle issues in their communities.

“Every single individual makes an impact on the planet every day — and we get to choose what sort of impact we make.”

During that visit, thanks to the generosity of HOT 1027 listeners, Hot Cares donated CCTV cameras to Chimp Eden to strengthen security at the sanctuary. Dr. Goodall was visibly moved:

“That is absolutely fantastic… I’d like to say an enormous thank you to those listeners who made this possible.”

A legacy that lives on

Dr. Goodall’s life was a testament to the power of curiosity, compassion, and conviction. Beyond her scientific discoveries, she was a UN Messenger of Peace, a Dame Commander of the British Empire, and most recently awarded the United States Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2025 .

Her vision continues through the Jane Goodall Institute and the Roots & Shoots program, which empowers young people worldwide to become leaders in conservation and humanitarian efforts.

As Dr. Goodall often reminded her audiences: “Together we can. Together we will. Together we must save the world.”

Join us as we revisit Dr. Jane Goodall’s visit to HOT House and Chimp Eden:

👉 To share your own remembrance of Dr. Goodall and to continue her legacy, visit janegoodall.org/rememberingjane.