Uganda’s “Chimp Island” Celebrates 20 Years

“In what terms should we think of these beings, nonhuman yet possessing so very many human-like characteristics? How should we treat them? Surely we should treat them with the same consideration and kindness as we show to other humans; and as we recognize human rights, so too should we recognize the rights of the great apes? Yes.” — Dr. Jane Goodall, celebrated British primatologist.

Dr. Goodall uttered that famous quote several decades ago. But her words — and her life’s work to understand, protect and conserve mankind’s closest relative — echoed loudly last June during a gala dinner to celebrate the 20th birthday of Uganda’s “Chimp Island.”

Founded in 1998 — when Dr Goodall and her associates brought an initial brood of 13 orphaned chimpanzees to Uganda — Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary has evolved into a global template for species study and conservation.

The year-long celebration includes media camps and tours, “chimp-veterinary live sessions” and a gala conservation dinner at Speke Resort Munyonyo & Conference Centre on the shore of Lake Victoria.

Mrs. Janet Museveni — First Lady of the Republic of Uganda and patron of the chimpanzee sanctuary — was Chief Guest at the anniversary dinner. During her address, she emphasized the need for the conservation fraternity to sensitize the masses (especially the youth) about their plight and the urgent need to save chimpanzees, as well as several other wildlife species under threat.

Dr. Goodall was the Guest of Honor at the 20-years anniversary celebration. Her heart-melting speech recounted how, in the summer of 1960, a young lady from Britain arrived on the shores of Lake Tanganyika to investigate wild chimpanzees, an encounter that would forever make her one of the world’s great conservation heroes.

About Ngamba Island

Located amid the vastness of Africa’s largest lake, Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary in Uganda is currently home to 49 parentless chimps, as well as humans involved in field conservation initiatives, community sensitization and research.

Adventure Consults offers half-day, full-day and overnight excursions to the island that include up-close encounters with the chimpanzees. There’s also a chance for visitors to adopt a baby chimp!
Boats depart at 9 a.m. and 12:45 p.m., returning to the mainland at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m., respectively. Customized departure times can be arranged for full day and overnight excursions as part of your main trip extension.