This unique conservation placement is for those who are interested in wildlife management and conservation. We offer the opportunity to work directly with the teams responsible for managing and protecting one of Uganda’s most important national parks and spectacular wildlife.

WHERE:

Kiyabwira Forest chimpanzee sanctuary located in Kibale / Hoima is at the heart of Uganda's chimpanzee habituation programme and this exciting project can put you right at its centre. Located on the South West part of Uganda, you will need 4 hours from Kampala the main capital of Uganda to reach the site.Transport can be arranged by the project staff to pick and drop you from Entebbe International Airport for a fee.

ACTIVITIES:

The main activity on this placement is monitoring chimpanzee numbers, territories, group behaviour and changes. This means observing, and collecting data in a variety of formats, community outreach programmes, trail design and brochure editing.
However, we know very well that conservation is a sensitive and far-reaching issue. And so from time to time we encourage volunteers to liaise with local communities and help where possible in development projects linked conservation.

PROJECT OBJECTIVES:

This project is a conservation initiative based around monitoring and understanding chimpanzees. Deforestation and the bush meat trade have brought about a massive decline in Uganda’s chimps population and it is only because of the efforts of the conservation organizations, that we have seen a successful turn around in management.

SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS:

No specific skills are required as basic training will be provided at the start of the placement. However, whatever skills you do bring, will be put to use. Whether you are a good communicator, a hard worker, keen learner or lateral thinker, your efforts will be appreciated. And in exchange, you will learn plenty about culture, species interaction, and human and wildlife conflicts.

ACCOMMODATION:

This is a field based placement and accommodation reflects this.Volunteers will stay in comfortable but basic house. There is no electricity or running water at the site.

FOOD:

Breakfast and supper will be provided at your accommodation. Food is generally simple and you will not go hungry, however, if you would like luxuries such as chocolates, crisps and sweets you will need to buy them yourself.

OTHER INFORMATION:

We currently provide placements for a minimum of 4 volunteers at any one time. There is a minimum placement of 2 weeks, although we highly recommend at least 4 weeks getting the most from the experience. Tours can be arranged to other National Parks within East Africa.