Leaders all over the world has paid tribute to the famous and celebrated Primatologist and conservationist Jane Goodall who died at 91.
Goodall has been described as a trailblazing naturalist whose intimate observations of chimpanzees in the African wild produced powerful insights that transformed basic conceptions of humankind. Who dedicated her live to protecting animals.
U.S. former president Barack Obama stated: “Jane Goodall had a remarkable ability to inspire us to connect with the natural wonders of our world, and her groundbreaking work on primates and the importance of conservation opened doors for generations of women in science. Michelle and I are thinking of all those who loved and admired her.”
Governor of Minnesota, Tim Walz: “Jane Goodall made the world a better place. She helped shape how we view the world around us, fought vehemently for the environment, and her love of chimpanzees was infectious. She will be greatly missed.”
Former president Joe Biden: “Jill and I are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Jane Goodall whose activism, vision, and message of hope mobilized a global movement to protect the planet. Above all, Jane taught us that when we search for humanity in the natural world around us, we discover it within ourselves. We are sending our love and strength to the Goodall family and everyone who was touched by her remarkable life of service.”
United Nations: “Today, the UN family mourns the loss of Dr. Jane Goodall. The scientist, conservationist and UN Messenger of Peace worked tirelessly for our planet and all its inhabitants, leaving an extraordinary legacy for humanity and nature.”
American comedian and writer, Jon Stewart: “Jane Goodall was just the best…damn.”
Governor Gavin Newsom: “Jane Goodall was a global legend at the forefront of discovery — breaking through barriers for women in primatology, science, and beyond. Her curiosity, strength, and kindness changed the world, bridging countries and cultures in pursuit of a better future.”
Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada: “The world has lost a tireless guardian of nature. Dr. Jane Goodall changed the way we understand animals — and our own humanity. Her advocacy inspired generations and her research revolutionized the field of biology. Her legacy lives on through every life she fought to protect. May she rest in peace, and may we take up her torch.”
American philanthropist, Melinda French Gates: As a world-renowned ethologist and conservationist who spent more than 65 years studying wild chimpanzees, Dr. Jane Goodall fundamentally changed the way we understand the world—and our place in it. She was also an extraordinarily powerful advocate, inspiring young people all over the world to stay curious, compassionate, and committed to building a brighter future for people, animals, and the environment. What a force she was.
English lexicographer, etymologist, and media personality, Susie Dent: “I am so sad to hear about the death of Jane Goodall. She spent a lifetime teaching us that, as humans, we are no more entitled to our glorious planet than the animals she so lovingly protected. We have lost someone remarkable.”
Apple CEO, Tim Cook: “Jane Goodall was a groundbreaking scientist and leader who taught us all so much about the beauty and wonder of our world. She never stopped advocating for nature, people, and the planet we share. May she rest in peace.”
UN Secretary General, António Guterres: “I’m deeply saddened to learn about the passing of Jane Goodall, our dear Messenger of Peace. She is leaving an extraordinary legacy for humanity & our planet. I’m grateful for her lifelong environmental protection efforts & her strong support for the @UN”
Former House Speaker, Nancy Pelosi: “Today, the world lost an iconic conservationist and primatologist. Jane Goodall redefined our understanding of the natural world, pioneered a new field of study and empowered generations. A dear friend for decades, her legacy will continue to inform and inspire.”
Spanish-American chef and restaurateur, José Ramón Andrés Puerta: “I was looking out of my window when I heard the news. It’s like Jane was sending a reminder: take care of nature and treat all living creatures with compassion, and she will always be with us…”
Chief International Anchor for CNN, Christiane Amanpour: “This really saddens me. Jane transcended just about every barrier, including from the human to the animal kingdom. Her love and knowledge and care with animals like chimpanzees helped us all transcend the too often vicious human world. She taught us all to care for something more than ourselves, like our planet.”
Her discoveries in the 1960s about how chimpanzees behaved in the wild broke new ground, revolutionized not only scientific understanding of the capabilities and inner lives of primates, but also long-held notions about what it means to be human.
The Jane Goodall Institute announced on October 1, 2025, that Jane Goodall died at 91. A primatologist, conservationist, animal advocate, educator, and National Geographic Explorer, her work revolutionized our understanding of the natural world.
She changed how we understand chimpanzees, founded the Jane Goodall Institute, and spent her life fighting for conservation. Her legacy lives on.
By: Adeoye Olorunseun Elizabeth
Rescued chimpanzee thanks Jane Goodall by giving her a hug