ACLN

Strengthening a key generation of African Leaders →

The African Conservation Leadership Network (ACLN) is a cohort-based leadership development program that strengthens and supports African conservation leaders and their organizations. ACLN has grown into a transformative pan-African network that fosters a new generation of dynamic, effective, and entrepreneurial conservation leaders, equipping them with the skills to build strong organizations, lead teams, and build broader conservation systems.

Since its launch in 2016 by Maliasili in partnership with The Nature Conservancy, ACLN is designed for senior conservation leaders across Africa, helping them refine their leadership approach, improve organizational management, and foster collaboration. ACLN alumni have gone on to expand their leadership roles, influence policy, and form regional conservation partnerships.

In partnership with

“Everything I have learned, all the skills, tools, and leadership qualities - I have been able to pass back to my team in Samburu. So the training has not just been impactful for me but has made a difference to a whole team in northern Kenya.”
— Shivani Bhalla
Ewaso Lions, Kenya
“I never thought I was the leader that I am. I only thought I was somewhere within the vehicle, I didn’t know if I was driving or being driven. Within two sessions, I realized my importance in the organization and why I really have to make use of myself for the betterment of our vision. The whole package is something that I feel we need as an organization."
— Bupe Banda
Zambia National Community Resource Board Association
“The three ACLN sessions have shifted my view of leadership. I’ve taken more leadership roles in my organization. I’ve learned enough to give me confidence in guiding others, at the same time embracing my new role as a manager.”
— Sam Shaba
Honeyguide, Tanzania

Strong Leaders. Effective Organisations. Transformative Impact.

237

African conservation leaders

79

Organisations

17

African
countries

The core components of ACLN are:

  • A structured, multi-phase curriculum designed to equip conservation leaders with practical skills, self-awareness, and management strategies
  • A long-term peer learning and support system fostering cross-sector collaboration, mentorship, and knowledge exchange 

Through interactive workshops, coaching, and real-world application, ACLN ensures leaders have the tools, strategies, and networks to drive conservation success at multiple levels. 

Since its inception, ACLN has delivered measurable, long-lasting impact by transforming conservation leaders and strengthening their organizations.

ACLN Alumni have →

  • Formed new partnerships, leading to joint conservation initiatives
  • Led large-scale conservation projects to protect critical wildlife and ecosystems 
  • Strengthened community-led conservation efforts, improving livelihoods and sustainability
  • Influenced policy and funding structures, advocating for long-term conservation solutions 

By investing in leaders, organizations, and networks, ACLN is shaping the future of African conservation—ensuring sustainable, locally-driven impact across diverse landscapes.

”ACLN has become this space for me where I come and engage with like-minded leaders in a free environment where I can ask questions that otherwise I would not get the ability to ask in any other forum.”
— –John Kamanga
South Rift Association of Land Owners (SORALO)

Our leadership programs →

Our leadership programs equip conservation leaders with the skills, knowledge and networks to strengthen their organizations and scale their impact. Each program is tailored to address specific regional, sectoral, and leadership needs, supporting conservation leaders at different career stages. Through a blend of peer learning, coaching, and immersive training, participants develop essential leadership capabilities while building lifelong connections with fellow leaders.

African Conservation Leadership Network (ACLN)

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African Marine Conservation Leadership Program (AMCLP)

Learn More

Lead Up

Learn More

Madagascar Environmental Leadership Program (MELP)

Learn More

Leaders Lab KAZA

Coming Soon

Objectives and Impact →

AMCLP operates on the principle that strong, adaptive leadership is essential to conservation success. The program strengthens leaders' capacities to:

  • Navigate complexity—helping them address local and global conservation challenges while effectively engaging stakeholders.
  • Drive systemic change—by equipping participants to scale impact within their organizations and the broader conservation network.
  • Build collaborative, high-impact teams—ensuring that leadership is not just individual but organizational and systemic.

Since its launch, AMCLP has trained over 60 conservation leaders from high-impact organizations across East Africa and the Western Indian Ocean (WIO). These leaders have secured critical funding, influenced national and regional policy, and pioneered community-driven conservation models that protect vital marine ecosystems.

Program Structure  →

AMCLP follows a structured, three-tier leadership model, focusing on self-awareness, organizational leadership, and collaborative action:

  1. Leading Self – Developing a deep understanding of leadership styles, personal strengths, and decision-making processes.
  2. Leading Teams & Organizations – Equipping leaders with the ability to manage teams, foster innovation, resolve conflicts, and secure funding.
  3. Leading Collaboration – Strengthening leaders’ ability to work across sectors, build strategic partnerships, and influence conservation policy.

The 12-month program integrates:

  • A strong peer network: Conservation leaders from diverse backgrounds connect, exchange ideas, and build enduring professional relationships.
  • Blended learning: A mix of self-paced modules, virtual engagement, and personalized coaching enhances learning flexibility.
  • Intensive workshops: In-person sessions provide hands-on training in strategic leadership, organizational development, and conservation innovation.

Building a Community of Change →

AMCLP does more than train leaders—it cultivates a network of marine conservation champions dedicated to a shared vision: a thriving, resilient marine ecosystem across Africa. The program fosters:

  • Cross-sector collaboration, strengthening ties between conservationists, policymakers, and local communities.
  • Practical leadership application, ensuring that graduates translate their learning into real-world impact.
  • A sustainable alumni network, providing ongoing mentorship, funding opportunities, and strategic support beyond the training period.

AMCLP alumni have emerged as catalysts for change, advocating for progressive marine policies, implementing community-led conservation projects, and driving regional conservation efforts. This growing leadership network is shaping the future of Africa’s coastal and marine environments, ensuring a legacy of strong, effective, and resilient conservation leadership.

Maliasili exists to help talented local conservation organizations overcome their challenges and constraints so that they can become more effective agents of change in their landscapes, communities, and nations.

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