Support orphaned and wild Chimpanzees in Uganda

At Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary, we continue to witness the power of kindness and collective action. Your generous contributions through the GlobalGiving platform have played a crucial role in shaping a brighter, healthier, and more compassionate world for our 54 resident chimpanzees.

Thanks to your support, we’ve made tremendous progress over the last few months. Here’s a glimpse of what your donations have helped us achieve:

1.0 Nourishment with Purpose: Feeding Our Family

Feeding 54 chimpanzees is no small task—but thanks to you, it’s a daily reality. Each day, our chimps enjoy four carefully balanced meals. We transport fresh produce—cassava, jackfruit, tomatoes, onions, okra—and protein-rich eggs across Lake Victoria by boat to reach the sanctuary. Dry rations like millet, soy, and cornmeal are also prepared with love and care.

Each meal shared is a symbol of the life-saving impact you make possible.

2.0 Enrichment for Healthy Minds and Happy Hearts

Comfort and mental stimulation are essential for chimpanzee well-being. With your support:

• We provided over 3,000 bundles of hay to support natural nesting behavior.
• We repaired and replaced hammocks in the holding facility, giving our chimps cozy places to rest.
• Honey and peanuts were introduced to promote natural tool use and foraging, helping reduce stress-related behaviors like hair plucking and coprophagy.

These simple things make a world of difference.

3.0 Compassionate Veterinary Care

Your generosity continues to fund daily veterinary care. Over the past three months:

• 14 minor and 2 major injuries were treated successfully, most resulting from social dynamics—especially during mating season and food competition.
• Our elderly chimp, Maisko, showed signs of weakness and was promptly treated and is now recovering well.
• Chimps above 30 years of age are receiving monthly multivitamins to support their immune systems.

Every treatment is a step toward healing—thanks to you.

4.0 A New Life Joins the Family

In August 2024, we celebrated a new beginning: Sophie gave birth to a healthy baby. Thanks to patient care and integration, the little one is now fully accepted into the group—another success story that you helped write.

5.0 Securing Their Sanctuary: Fence Repairs

Our sanctuary recently faced challenges with the perimeter fence due to strong winds. With your support, we swiftly reinforced weak sections using galvanized poles and welded panels, preventing escape risks and ensuring safety for both chimps and staff.

6.0 Inspiring the Future: Conservation Education

We know the future of chimpanzees lies not just on Ngamba Island, but in the hearts of communities across Uganda. That’s why conservation awareness remains a core focus:

• A borehole was completed in Karuswiga to provide clean water and reduce human-wildlife conflict.
• Hydrological surveys were conducted for a second borehole in Kagadi district.
• Biodiversity monitoring took place in Itohya and Mparangasi forests.
• Two school outreach programs reached over 200 students with educational materials and wildlife conservation messages.

These efforts create a ripple effect—educating and empowering the next generation of conservationists.

Links:

• Learn more about our chimpanzees