JGI Rescues Chimpanzee and Mandrill Across Borders

Why this is here: The rescue involved coordination across four countries—Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Republic of the Congo, and Spain—demonstrating the scale of collaboration needed for successful wildlife protection.

The Jane Goodall Institute led a complex animal rescue, moving a young chimpanzee named Lola and an adult mandrill named Nico from Equatorial Guinea to JGI’s Tchimpounga sanctuary in the Republic of the Congo. Authorities in Equatorial Guinea discovered Lola and Nico while investigating reports of illegal wildlife ownership. Recognizing Equatorial Guinea lacked suitable long-term care facilities, JGI designed a multi-country relocation plan.

The rescue required months of preparation, including securing government approvals and coordinating with partners like the Pan African Sanctuary Alliance. A critical complication arose when Lola fell ill with intestinal parasites, requiring immediate veterinary attention from nurse Dunez Mouaya dispatched to Equatorial Guinea. JGI opted for ground transport over air travel to prioritize the animals’ stability, despite logistical challenges like a border closure and an unsuitable transport vehicle.

After navigating these hurdles and securing an appropriate vehicle, the team successfully crossed into Gabon, only to face detention by authorities despite having proper documentation. JGI leveraged established relationships with Congolese officials, who intervened to ensure safe passage. Lola and Nico arrived at Tchimpounga, where they began quarantine and recovery, and the institute continues to support their integration into sanctuary life.