Researchers' Campaign to Support Chimfunshi

Research supports Chimfunshi and the care of all chimpanzees

Researchers come to Chimfunshi from all over the world to learn about chimpanzee behaviour, studying how they learn, communicate, express their emotions, cooperate, share, and compete.

Over the past 10 years, Chimfunshi's Research Advisory Board has considered over 50 research projects! At Chimfunshi, scientists have researched cultural traditions, tool use, and even empathy in these chimpanzees.

During the 2024 Giving Day for Apes event, we have the opportunity to help give back to the chimpanzees from whom we've learned so much.

Following last year’s rescue and successful integration of Aimee Love, Fidelou, and Vicky, we are excited to observe the complete Sudan group, now all residing together. 

This year, Chimfunshi wants to build them a sprawling 20-hectare new enclosure for all 11 residents. This upgrade will significantly enhance their well-being, allowing them to engage in natural, chimpanzee behaviors like nest-building, foraging and territory patrols.  

Like all chimpanzees at Chimfunshi, this group lives in a large, forested enclosure, which allows them to roam, forage, and nest independently among their peers. This setting provides a home that mimics their wild habitat and enables the chimpanzees to develop natural social behaviours and relationships.

The Sudan group includes Commando, John, Congo, Aimi, Annie, Juma, Victoria, Miriam, Aimee Love, Fidelou, and Vicky. And they need our help!

Your donations to this campaign will go directly to support the much-needed creation of a new enclosure and handling facility.

Please share this campaign and donate to give back to these chimpanzees, who have taught us so much about their lives and the origins of our own behaviour.

Chimfunshi cares for over 150 chimpanzees, and their care continues when we are away. These chimpanzees have taught us what it means to be part of the great ape family - courageous, cooperative, and resourceful. As students and scientists, we’ve gained so much from watching them.

Chimfunshi is not just about chimpanzees. It offers opportunities for both private research and collaborative studies in areas such as ecology, native wildlife, and bird life. Their partnerships with local universities in Zambia are growing, and they continue to collaborate with international institutions to advance conservation science. 

Before building this new enclosure, Chimfunshi's researchers will survey the environment to have precise data on the trees and plants present in their new home. They will then be able to monitor the chimpanzees' impact on the forest.

Thank you for your support from the

Chimfunshi Research Advisory Board

Edwin van Leeuwen, Katie Cronin, Daniel Haun, Katja Liebal, Aurore Balaran, and Peggy Motsch