Linking People & Conservation
Who we are
The African Conservation Foundation (ACF) is an award-winning charity dedicated to protecting Africa’s endangered wildlife and restoring ecosystems. Since 2001, we have pioneered community-led, people-driven conservation approaches that empower local organisations, communities, and conservationists to protect their natural heritage.
By combining grassroots action, capacity building, and cutting-edge nature-based solutions, we address critical environmental challenges while uplifting vulnerable communities across sub-Saharan Africa.
Our vision
A thriving Africa where biodiversity flourishes, ecosystems are resilient, and communities are empowered to build sustainable futures in harmony with nature. We envision a continent with vast wilderness areas, healthy ecosystems, and abundant wildlife coexisting with empowered local communities.
Our Mission
To develop local capacity for conservation by:
- Empowering grassroots organisations, conservationists, and vulnerable communities to lead transformative environmental actions.
- Building collaborative networks to foster sustainable and community-led conservation initiatives.
- Promoting nature-based solutions that restore ecosystems, mitigate climate change, and provide livelihoods.
We aim to bridge the gap between people and conservation, creating scalable, community-driven solutions to address Africa’s most pressing environmental challenges.
Our Approach
Community-Led Conservation
We believe the most effective conservation solutions start from the ground up. ACF works directly with local communities, valuing their knowledge and empowering them to lead conservation efforts. By focusing on vulnerable groups, including women, youth, and indigenous communities, we create inclusive solutions that align with cultural and social priorities.
Local Capacity Development
To ensure lasting impact, we build the capacity of local conservationists and organisations, equipping them with the skills, tools, and resources to implement sustainable initiatives. Through training, mentoring, and technical support, we empower them to become leaders in conservation and sustainable development.
Collaboration and Networking
ACF fosters partnerships between grassroots organisations, global experts, and stakeholders. Through our innovative online portal, we connect African NGOs, conservationists, and communities to share knowledge, access resources, and collaborate on projects that drive impact at scale.
Nature-Based Solutions
We integrate ecosystem restoration, regenerative agriculture, ecotourism, and other sustainable practices into our conservation programmes. These solutions not only protect biodiversity but also provide social and economic benefits to communities, helping them build climate resilience and sustainable livelihoods.
Our Impact
Empowering Local Conservationists
Over the past 20 years, ACF has trained more than 300 conservation professionals from over 50 African organisations. This investment in local capacity has created a ripple effect of positive outcomes for wildlife, ecosystems, and communities.
Restoring Ecosystems
By developing ecological corridors, and through tree planting, rewilding, and habitat restoration, we’ve supported the recovery of key ecosystems and endangered species. Our initiatives mitigate climate change, enhance biodiversity, and create healthier environments for both people and wildlife.
Sustainable Livelihoods
Our programmes are designed to provide economic opportunities for local communities, from ecotourism ventures to regenerative agriculture practices. By aligning conservation with community development, we ensure long-term sustainability for both nature and people.
Global Contributions
ACF’s work contributes to achieving international goals, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), and the Paris Climate Agreement.
Our impact in numbers
North, West and Central Africa
Why ACF?
ACF is more than a conservation organisation—we’re a movement that connects people and nature. With staff and partners across Africa, including Cameroon, DR Congo, Ethiopia, and the UK, we work tirelessly to create solutions that are as innovative as they are inclusive.
By partnering with ACF, you’re supporting the communities and organisations on the frontlines of conservation. Together, we can ensure that Africa’s biodiversity and natural heritage are protected for generations to come.
Join us in creating a healthier, thriving Africa where people and nature thrive together.
