Officials commented on the matter. Tanshi’s dedication to saving bats from wildfires, protecting endangered species, and preventing human-induced wildfires has positioned her as a beacon of hope in Africa’s fight against environmental degradation. Nut Graf: Tanshi’s journey began in 2010 while studying in Uganda, where her passion for bats took root.
She discovered the short — tailed roundleaf bat, a species not confirmed to live in Nigeria, in the Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary, leading her on a mission to safeguard the species and its habitat. Tanshi’s Small Mammal Conservation Organization (SMACON) embarked on a survey of bat colonies in 2016 at the Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary in Nigeria’s Cross River State. Two weeks later, a wildfire ravaged the sanctuary, prompting Tanshi to launch the Zero Wildfire Campaign in 2017.
She recognized that climate change had altered rainfall and temperature patterns, leading to intensified fires during inappropriate times of the year. Drawing inspiration from wildfire monitoring systems in the United States, Tanshi installed color-coded signs and trained local “Forest Guardians “to become the first line of defense against wildfires.
The Zero Wildfire Campaign prevented 74 fire outbreaks on farms from 2022 to 2025, protecting both endangered habitats and local livelihoods. Tanshi’s innovative approach has not gone unnoticed.
In 2026, she was recognized with the Goldman Environmental Prize, a prestigious annual award honoring grassroots environmental leaders worldwide. “Change starts where you stand, “Tanshi told CNN. “If you’re being impacted by climate change, there are solutions that you may have, actors who can scale up and make things happen. “.
The Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for biodiversity, home to critically endangered species such as gorillas, chimpanzees, and drill monkeys. Tanshi’s work is crucial in preserving this rich ecosystem, which faces threats from human activities. Her achievement is a testament to the power of grassroots activism and the significant role women play in environmental protection globally.
Tanshi’s story serves as inspiration to other activists and communities in Africa, demonstrating that local action can lead to significant global impact. Kicker: As Tanshi moves forward, her goal is to continue inspiring others to take action, ensuring that the Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary and its inhabitants are preserved for future generations.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
—
This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
