What will it consist of?
- Our island in the Congo River will have a number of animal enclosures, specialist scientific facilities, housing and work spaces for our staff, kitchens and, of course, a fully-equipped infirmary with operating facilities. The island is reached from the neighbouring riverbank so there will be landing and mooring facilities and accommodation for ‘eco-tourist’ visitors, as well as an information and education centre. Energy sources will be as environmentally friendly as possible and will include solar power.
Who will work here?
- Engineers and local villagers are currently building the infrastructure: access to the main road from Kisangani, paths on the island, landing stage etc.
- Later on scientists, volunteers and teachers will follow. By the time the chimps arrive local people will have been taught how to grow fruit and vegetables for human and chimp consumption thus generating sustainable employment in the region.