In the lush highlands of southwestern Uganda, a remarkable discovery is stirring excitement among conservationists and researchers. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, already famed for its mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, and rare bird species, has now officially confirmed the presence of chimpanzees within its dense forests. This revelation places the park on an even higher pedestal as a destination for primate lovers and deepens its importance within the broader conservation efforts underway in the Virunga region.
The announcement came during the launch of a collaborative primate census that spans three countries; Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Leading the charge was Wellad Makambo, managing director of the International Gorilla Conservation Programme (IGCP), who emphasized the importance of this new finding. He explained that while an increase in mountain gorilla numbers is anticipated, the confirmed presence of chimpanzees is equally significant. These two great ape species, though sometimes sharing the same habitat, occupy different ecological niches. Understanding how chimpanzees are thriving in these mountain environments could offer new insights into habitat preferences, competition, and adaptability in primates.
Initial sightings of chimpanzees in Mgahinga came through the Earth Ranger surveillance system, a sophisticated tracking network used by conservation teams. These observations were further confirmed by rangers and mountain gorilla trackers operating in the area. The contrast between the two species is notable. Gorillas are stockier, more powerful, and ground-dwelling, while chimpanzees are leaner, more agile, and often arboreal. Their coexistence in the same forested landscape is both rare and scientifically valuable.
This discovery is not happening in isolation. It is part of a broader conservation initiative focused on the Greater Virunga Transboundary Landscape, a biologically rich area that stretches across national borders. The aim is not only to protect endangered species but also to promote regional cooperation and sustainable tourism. Irene Mwerwerwe, CEO of the Rwanda Tourism Board, sees this kind of cross-border effort as transformative. She believes that with mountain gorillas already drawing thousands of visitors each year, the addition of chimpanzees could further boost tourist numbers and foster deeper environmental awareness across the region.
From the Ugandan perspective, the Uganda Wildlife Authority has welcomed the discovery as a call to action. Executive director James Musinguzi highlighted the challenges still facing conservation efforts; poaching, disease outbreaks, insecurity, and human encroachment remain serious threats. Yet, he pointed out that primate-based tourism now contributes up to 60 percent of Uganda’s wildlife conservation revenue, underlining just how critical these species are to the country’s environmental and economic health. To protect them, coordinated strategies and joint patrols across borders will be essential.
There’s also growing scientific curiosity around the behavioral patterns of the newly confirmed chimpanzees. Peter Apel from the Jane Goodall Institute noted a curious observation: some chimps build their nests in trees, while others opt for the ground. This kind of variation within a single population may point to unique adaptations or even cultural behaviors, prompting researchers to delve deeper into what makes the Mgahinga chimps distinct.
The confirmation of chimpanzees in Mgahinga is more than a wildlife headline—it’s a symbol of what’s possible when conservation, science, and regional collaboration come together. As the census continues and more data emerges, there is a growing sense that the Virunga region is entering a new era. With both gorillas and chimpanzees now calling these mountains home, Mgahinga is solidifying its role as a global stronghold for primate conservation and a must-visit destination for travelers seeking more than just a Uganda safari.
