Pretoria, South Africa – 03 November 2025: Defender has reaffirmed its commitment to humanitarian and conservation work across the African continent with the handover of two new Defender 130 Outbound vehicles to the Kingsley Holgate Foundation. This milestone marks the continuation of a long-standing partnership defined by purposeful exploration and life-changing impact.
For decades, the Kingsley Holgate Foundation has ventured into some of Africa’s most remote regions, delivering critical aid that saves and uplifts lives. Their work is anchored in malaria prevention—an urgent priority given the disease’s persistent threat. The World Health Organisation’s latest Malaria Report reveals a worrying rise of 11 million cases globally in recent years, with Africa carrying a staggering 95% of the burden. Young children and pregnant women remain the most vulnerable to the disease’s devastating impacts.
Veteran explorer and humanitarian Kingsley Holgate underscores the urgency of the work:
“Malaria prevention remains a cornerstone of all our journeys. Every member of our expedition team has contracted malaria in the past, so we know first-hand how life-threatening it is and how difficult it is to eradicate, especially in remote regions where healthcare facilities are scarce. It has thus become our personal mission to use our journeys to save and improve lives, and we thank Defender for powering these drives.”
Driving Impact Where It Matters Most
The Foundation’s recent Greater Gorongosa Expedition demonstrates the profound effect of its interventions. Supported by Defender’s dependable 4×4 capability, the team distributed high-quality insecticide-treated mosquito nets and provided malaria prevention education to approximately 3,000 mothers and children in Mozambique. These are simple tools with immense power—the difference between vulnerability and protection.
But the expedition’s impact extended even further. Hundreds of elderly individuals received eye tests and reading glasses, restoring practical independence and quality of life. More than 1,000 schoolchildren participated in the Foundation’s wildlife education programme, which blends art and soccer to highlight the importance of conserving Africa’s natural heritage.
These initiatives were undertaken using two Defender 130s that have already proven their endurance. The vehicles previously endured the 62,000km Afrika Odyssey Expedition, crossing 22 countries and finishing their tenure with nearly 93,000km on the odometer—an extraordinary testament to Defender’s reliability.
Defender 130 Outbound: Built for Purpose-Driven Exploration
The next chapter of the Foundation’s mission will be powered by the new Defender 130 Outbound models—vehicles that combine unparalleled practicality, comfort and off-road capability.
Available exclusively in a five-seat configuration, the Defender 130 Outbound offers expansive loadspace, with up to 2,516 litres available when the second row is folded down and 1,329 litres when in use. A nearly flat load floor measuring 1.267 metres behind the second row ensures effortless packing of humanitarian supplies, expedition equipment and emergency aid.
The model’s go-anywhere ability is reinforced by Defender’s Intelligent All-Wheel Drive System, Terrain Response 2®, Electronic Air Suspension and Adaptive Dynamics. Up to 430mm of articulation and 900mm of wading capability allow the Foundation’s teams to confidently navigate washed-out tracks, river crossings, steep escarpments and dune belts—natural barriers that often separate vulnerable communities from vital assistance.
To meet the demands of rugged expeditions, the vehicles are further equipped with optional enhancements including a raised air intake for dust filtration, a black roof rack and ladder for accessible overhead storage, and side-mounted gear carriers for wet or muddy equipment. Underbody protection plates safeguard critical components, while a winch and integrated compressor support recoveries and tyre pressure management in remote terrain.
A Partnership That Drives Change
Janico Dannhauser, Defender Brand Manager, JLR South Africa, highlights the significance of the collaboration:
“Defender stands for much more than just capability. It stands for the ability to make a difference. We are incredibly proud to continue our partnership with the Kingsley Holgate Foundation, knowing that the legendary robustness and all-terrain capability of the Defender 130 will not only power their incredible journeys but, more importantly, it will help save and improve lives in the remote communities they serve.”
With the handover of these new Defender 130 Outbound vehicles, Defender renews its support for a mission defined by humanity, resilience and purpose. As the Kingsley Holgate Foundation prepares for its upcoming 2026 expeditions, these vehicles will once again serve as trusted companions—capable not only of tackling extreme landscapes, but of helping to change lives where hope is needed most.
