The Stellenbosch University (SU) community is in mourning following the tragic death of Dr Donovan “Don” Kirkwood, esteemed curator of the SU Botanical Garden (SUBG), who tragically died in a fall during a conservation field trip in the Jonkershoek Mountains on Tuesday.
Dr Kirkwood was part of a team comprising members of the SUBG, CapeNature, and international collaborators from Cambridge University, conducting vital conservation work on Penaea formosa, a critically endangered species endemic to the Cape Floristic Region.
A Visionary in Conservation
Dr Kirkwood, who joined SU in October 2018, was a trained ecologist and botanist with deep expertise in Cape, savanna, and forest ecosystems.
He was widely respected for his scientific rigor, conservation leadership, and commitment to protecting South Africa’s most threatened flora.
“Donovan was one of a kind – a passionate conservationist and educator, a beloved colleague, and a visionary leader,” said Mr Hein Swanepoel, Senior Director of SUNCOM and Dr Kirkwood’s line manager.
Ms Anita Nel, Chief Director of Innovation and Commercialisation at SU, noted that Dr Kirkwood’s influence extended far beyond Stellenbosch:
“He pursued the conservation of near-extinct species with extraordinary commitment. His work elevated the SUBG to a global benchmark for academic botanical gardens.”
Transforming the Botanical Garden
Under Dr Kirkwood’s leadership, SUBG evolved from a scenic space into a dynamic scientific hub for conservation, known especially for its focus on fynbos and renosterveld species.
He spearheaded efforts to conserve South Africa’s rarest plants, including various Marasmodes species.
He was also instrumental in restoring the historical layout of the garden and initiated the James and Shirley Sherwood Botanical Art Collection, which promotes conservation through public engagement and art.
Fondly Remembered
Professors Léanne Dreyer and Nox Makunga from SU’s Department of Botany and Zoology reflected on his legacy.
“Don transformed the Botanical Garden into a vibrant, cutting-edge centre of excellence. He was enigmatic, colourful, and kind, with an immense passion for the natural world. Even in his final moments, he was doing what he loved most.”
Nel added that Dr Kirkwood’s influence reached far beyond plants.
“He touched thousands of lives – both botanical and human. Stellenbosch University Botanical Garden will remain a living monument to his life, vision, and enduring impact.”
A Life Dedicated to Science and Nature
Dr Kirkwood earned his PhD from the University of Cape Town in 2003.
His research and expertise spanned population ecology, floristic surveys, sampling design, and statistical analysis, positioning him as a leading figure in South African botany.
The university has requested privacy for Dr Kirkwood’s family during this time.
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