MBOMBELA – The world’s foremost chimpanzee expert and UN Messenger of Peace, Dr Jane Goodall, will give signal for the start of construction of the escape-proof enclosure for Nikki and Amadeus at JGI SA officially opened the new Chimpanzee Eden Sanctuary at 09:30 on February 16.
These two primates faced the prospect of euthanasia after an attack on a JGI SA Chimpanzee Eden staff member in April 2014. Organisations from around the world stepped in to prevent this from happening and raised a staggering R2 000 000, which will be used to build this new enclosure.
After the unfortunate attack, there appeared to be no other alternative but to euthanise them.
Public outrage, together with explanations by experts and Pan African Sanctuary Alliance, gave the chimpanzees a second chance. It was made clear, however, that another violent incident would seal their fate, and therefore the only option was to move the animals out of the larger semi-natural enclosure, into a closed one with a roof. Since chimpanzees are escape artists, a lot of work was put into the design of this enclosure.
In a joint effort between the JGI Global, JGI SA and various JGI chapters from around the world, a fund-raising campaign was initiated. Companies, the latter and individuals from around the world raised enough money to start the construction of the enclosure. The first phase will be ready to accommodate the chimpanzees on completion, scheduled for the end of March this year.
This enclosure will ensure that the lives of Nikki and Amadeus are saved and will contribute to Chimp Eden being a safe haven for rescued chimps.
Goodall will lay the first stone of the new enclosure to show her personal commitment to the project.
Read about the attack here
