Chimpanzee Rescue in Cameroon

In the forests of Cameroon, habitat destruction and the illegal ape meat trade are driving chimpanzees rapidly toward extinction. While vulnerable populations dwindle, individuals suffer unimaginably. The chimpanzees who die violently at the hands of poachers are not the only victims of the ape meat trade. Infants who survive the hunt can be sold as pets in Cameroon or smuggled out of the country to meet the growing demand from Asian zoos, ultimately condemned to malnutrition, disease, loneliness and misery. As a result of the lucrative international trade, some poachers specifically target nursing mothers for their infants. Sadly, females carrying babies are often slower and easier to hit with shotguns.

Sanaga-Yong Chimpanzee Rescue in Cameroon, West-Central Africa needs help from highly motivated, mature volunteers who are committed to the conservation of great apes and are willing to live in an isolated, challenging environment to help save an endangered species. This incredibly rewarding, life-enriching experience provides the exclusive opportunity to live in Africa, learn from our highly skilled staff and care for our beloved resident chimpanzees!

Under the direction of a Volunteer Supervisor, volunteers are responsible for helping with the day-to-day operations of the sanctuary. Tasks include working with Cameroonian staff (who speak French), helping with chimpanzee care and feeding, kitchen duties, washing fruit, cleaning cages, assisting with facilities and fence maintenance, overseeing use of project equipment, painting, buying food and supplies in town, and other manual tasks. Volunteers pitch in wherever most needed, though efforts are made to match individuals with their specific talents and skills. Please note: contact with juvenile and adult chimpanzees occurs during daily feedings and enrichment activities. Hands-on contact with baby chimpanzees is limited and not guaranteed.