RIP Garth Owen-Smith — A Giant of African Conservation
“Together with his lifelong conservation colleague and partner, Dr Margaret “Margie” Jacobsohn, Garth Owen-Smith helped establish IRDNC (Integrated Rural Development and Nature Conservation). Their pioneering community-based conservation model became an inspiration throughout Africa”
Garth Owen-Smith (1944–2020) standing
Garth Owen-Smith (1944–2020) was one of Africa’s truly great conservationists.
A South African-born conservationist who devoted his life to the wild landscapes and people of Namibia, Garth Owen-Smith understood something that would change conservation forever: wildlife could only survive if local communities were given a meaningful role in protecting it.
During some of Namibia’s darkest years of wildlife poaching, Garth worked in the remote Kunene region, building relationships with traditional leaders and local communities. Rather than separating people from wildlife, he helped communities become the guardians of their own natural heritage.
Together with his lifelong conservation colleague and partner, Dr Margaret “Margie” Jacobsohn, he helped establish IRDNC (Integrated Rural Development and Nature Conservation). Their pioneering community-based conservation model became an inspiration throughout Africa.
Among his many achievements were the Goldman Environmental Prize in 1993, the United Nations Global 500 Award, the Knights of the Order of the Golden Ark, and the Prince William Lifetime Conservation Award in recognition of his extraordinary contribution to conservation.
Garth was also an author, writing An Arid Eden, sharing his experiences and the remarkable conservation story of north-western Namibia.
Behind the conservationist was a family who shared the sacrifices that came with a life devoted to the wild. He was the father of two sons, Tuareg and Kyle, and a grandfather. His commitment to conservation was immense, and he acknowledged that such dedication sometimes came at a personal cost.
Garth Owen-Smith died on 11 April 2020, aged 76.
His legacy, however, lives on—in Namibia’s community conservancies, in the people who protect wildlife, and in the elephants, rhinos and other animals that continue to roam free.
RIP Garth Owen-Smith. 🕊️
Your life was dedicated to protecting Africa’s wild heart. You showed the world that conservation is not only about protecting animals—it is about protecting the relationship between people, wildlife and the land.
A remarkable man.
A courageous conservationist.
A true African conservation giant.
Your legacy will never be forgotten. 🌍🐘🦏
Mike Brosnan Wild Connection @highlight
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