Gorilla and Chimp Census Begins in Bwindi to Strengthen Conservation

Gorilla and Chimp Census activities officially began in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park with a high-profile launch by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). Dr. James Musinguzi, the Executive Director of UWA, led the ceremony at the Institute of Tropical Forest Conservation (ITFC) in Ruhija. This marks a major step toward understanding the current population and health status of mountain gorillas and chimpanzees in the region.

Gorilla and Chimp Census Supported by Regional and Global Conservation Partners

Gorilla and Chimp Census efforts are not just a national task; they’re a shared mission across borders. The launch event in Ruhija attracted key organizations: the Rwanda Development Board, Greater Virunga Transboundary Collaboration, Gorilla Doctors, Jane Goodall Institute, WWF Uganda Country Office, and several others.

Gorilla and Chimp Census Builds on 28 Years of Conservation Research

Gorilla and Chimp Census work in Bwindi has a long history. The first official gorilla count took place in 1997. Since then, Uganda has conducted five censuses, the last one in 2018, which recorded 459 mountain gorillas in the Bwindi-Sarambwe ecosystem.

Gorilla and Chimp Census in 2025 After COVID-19 Delays

Gorilla and Chimp Census work had been scheduled for 2023 but was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Rescheduling to 2025 allowed UWA and its partners to rebuild the capacity needed for a large-scale field operation.

Gorilla and Chimp Census Combines Nest Counts and DNA Analysis

Gorilla and Chimp Census teams will use two scientific methods to collect data. The first is nest counting, where teams look for fresh nests left behind by gorillas and chimps. The second is genetic analysis, using dung samples to identify individuals through their DNA.

Gorilla and Chimp Census Results Guide Future Tourism Planning

Gorilla and Chimp Census numbers have direct links to Uganda’s tourism strategy. Apes attract the highest number of international tourists, and gorilla tracking permits are one of UWA’s biggest revenue sources.

Gorilla and Chimp Census Strengthens UWA’s Conservation Goals

Gorilla and Chimp Census efforts reflect UWA’s larger goals: to improve wildlife monitoring, reduce poaching, and enhance tourism earnings. Dr. Musinguzi stated that apes contribute over 60% of UWA’s internally generated revenue.

Gorilla and Chimp Census Emphasizes Human-Wildlife Coexistence

Gorilla and Chimp Census work also helps manage relationships between humans and wildlife. As human populations grow near Bwindi, there are increasing risks of conflict—crop raiding, disease transmission, and land competition.

Gorilla and Chimp Census Supported by Strong Logistics and Training

Gorilla and Chimp Census success depends heavily on logistics. UWA has strengthened both its human and logistical capacity. Field teams are equipped with GPS units, data sheets, radios, and first aid kits.

Gorilla and Chimp Census Protects a Shared Heritage

Gorilla and Chimp Census efforts aren’t just scientific—they’re cultural. These primates are part of Uganda’s national identity and a key reason the country stands out in Africa’s tourism market.

Gorilla and Chimp Census Inspires the Next Generation of Conservationists

Gorilla and Chimp Census teams include young conservationists who are gaining real-world field experience. Many are university graduates, interns, or early-career biologists.

Gorilla and Chimp Census Encourages Transparent Reporting

Gorilla and Chimp Census findings will be shared publicly once verified. This transparency builds trust with international funders and local stakeholders.

Gorilla and Chimp Census Driven by Urgency and Hope

Gorilla and Chimp Census teams are racing against time. Habitat destruction, climate change, and disease outbreaks are ongoing threats. This census is not just routine—it’s a vital update on how the species are doing after major disruptions like COVID-19.

Gorilla and Chimp Census: What You Can Do to Help

Gorilla and Chimp Census activities rely on public support. Tourists, donors, and citizens can contribute by booking tours, supporting local guides, donating to conservation groups, and spreading accurate information.

Gorilla and Chimp Census as a Model for Africa

Gorilla and Chimp Census methodology used in Bwindi can serve as a model for other countries. Combining DNA analysis with nest counting ensures high-quality results, even in challenging terrain.