Cameroon sanctuary offers safe haven for orphaned chimps

The Papaye International Sanctuary in Douala-Edea Natural Park is dedicated to protecting endangered chimpanzees, a species that shares 98% of its DNA with humans. The main threat to their survival is human activity, particularly poaching and deforestation.

At the sanctuary, Cameroonian caretakers rehabilitate orphaned chimpanzees, helping them adjust to adulthood. Currently, 34 chimps are under care, with staff focused on their long-term survival. The sanctuary's efforts are seen as crucial, as the shrinking forest and human encroachment continue to reduce the chimps' natural habitat, raising concerns about the species' future.