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Chimfunshi - Africa's sanctuary for Chimps, Zambia

Pawel Jaworski

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On the headwaters of the Kafue River, sixty kilometers west of Chingola, lies the Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage. Aside from Chimpanzees, Chimfunshi does have a host of other animals benefiting from the care of David and Sheila Siddle.

The Siddle's retired to farm at Chimfunshi in the late seventies. Locally famous for caring for animals, Sheila received in 1983 a young chimpanzee that had been confiscated from Zairean poachers. The Chimpanzee wasnt expected to survive, but Sheila persisted and nursed the animals back to health. That act of love sparked off a process that has turned Chimfunshi into an internationally recognised sanctuary and rehabilitation centre. In fact, it is the only successful centre of its kind in the world; surviving on the tenacity and ingenuity of David and Sheila as well the financial support of well wishers (as opposed to international wildlife conservation agencies). Once millions of chimpanzees roamed the forests of 25 countries in equatorial Africa. Today they are an endangered species. Chimfunshi is now home to over fifty chimpanzees housed in two enclosures - one walled and the other solar power electric fencing - with cages for the new introductions. But Chimfunshi is outgrowing itself. Plans for the acquisition of more land have developed into the formation of the Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage Trust. The Trust has purchased a neighbouring farm of ten thousand acres. the intention is to create a 2500 acre fenced enclosure for the chimps while the balance will be dedicated to a wildlife preserve, education facilities and a tourist lodge. The lengthy process of acquiring the necessary funds to facilitate this ambitious project have already begun.

Further information can be requested from "Friends of Chimfunshi" P.O. Box 3555, Kempton Park, 1620 South Africa. Fax: (011) 606-2492. Donations are urgently needed and can be sent to the same address.

Although Chimfunshi does not cater for tourists just yet, accommodation is available for paying guests who are genuinely interested in chimpanzees. Messages to let them know youre coming can be left at 311293 in Chingola. Fax: 311100.

If youre in this remote part of north western Zambia, it is well worth a visit. In fact its worth taking a trip here from anywhere in Zambia, such is the privilege of being able to spend time with these fascinating animals. In a world of crass commercialism, Chimfunshi thrives on unconditional love and untrammelled dedication.

CHIMFUNSHI CAMPSITE on the banks of the kafue River

Camping area..........$10 per person per night. Hot showers available
Thatched Chalet.......$ 20 per person per night, 2 beds with mattreses

For sale: Charcoal - braai packs, coffee, tea, powdered milk or fresh milk, popcorn, chips, baked beans, bully beef, matches

Bar......Beers and cool drinks

Canoes available

Boat trips.....The Africa Queen with outboard engine and coxswain, can take between five and six people.

For further information contact Marggie Katola Tel Chingola 311293 during working hours.

See Chimfunshi's own Web page Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage