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Our Staff

Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary is more than just a haven for rescued chimpanzees; it is a place of passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to conservation. Behind the scenes, a team of professionals works tirelessly to ensure the well-being of the island’s primate residents while also fostering education, research, and ecotourism. Our staff is the backbone of this sanctuary, and each member plays a crucial role in making Ngamba Island a world-renowned model for chimpanzee care and protection.

Martha Nansamba

Business Development Manager

Selling a destination is never quite an easy job but selling the chimpanzee destination always puts a smile on my face because I get to tell the most amazing stories about our resident friends, colleagues, our gang of pant hooting brother’s and sister’s you name it. From L-Irene Atuhairwe, Abel Kirui (Kenyan Olympics Silver medallist)

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Joshua Rukundo

Veterinarian

Dr. Joshua Rukungo is a well trained and experienced veterinarian with a passion for wild life. His previous wildlife experiences include the care of lions and hyenas in Queen Elizabeth Nation park before he delved into domestic veterinary medicine in Kamuli, Ssembabule, Rukungiri, and Mbarara, and most recently in private practice in Kampala.

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Okello Amos

Caregiver/Kiosk Manager

A Japadhola who hails from the Northern part of Uganda. He loves debates/Public discussions and has always loved nature and wildlife thus his position of caregiver which calls for taking care of these endangered species Amos joined the organization in 2004 at that time he was among the people that rescued Afrika a chimp.

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Joseph Masereka

Care Giver

Joan Mukisa

Accountant

Work until you no longer have to introduce yourself ” In my culture chimpanzees are seen as bad animals because they destroy people’s crops and kill people. But my experience at Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary, is starting to change that mindset because I’m learning that chimpanzees will only destroy your crops when there are no.

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Otim Samuel

Accountant

it is very important to know where the money of the organization you work for is spent to be able to understand the urgency and the need to attend to certain requests faster than others. For me that happened when I visited Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary during my orientation on the job.

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Betty Angucia

House Keeper/Care Giver

“The chimps are like people,i see myself in them.” My children grew up with Ikuru. I know this may sound like pet trade but that’s not how it all happened. My husband worked at the zoo.

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Silver Birungi

Education officer

“A single individual changed each day is worth saving a number of animals and plants from extinction.” Silver Birungi is a dedicated conservation educationist, manager and passionate about great apes.

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Moses Bageya

Care Giver

Moses is originally from Bugiri district, northern Uganda. Before coming to work on Ngamba, he worked at UWEC for five years, filling a number of different posts.

Moses started working on Ngamba in May 2002 and really enjoys being in the vicinity of the chimps. He loves the chimps and thinks of them as his own children.

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Irene Atuhairwe

Reservation officer

My story is pretty short— from intern to reservation officer. That’s it! Although if told elaborately, this is how it would be told. I had always wanted to work with a conservation organization that had a back ground of sustainable tourism in it because that’s what I majored in as a graduate until I found

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Richard Nyakuta

Care Giver

Nyakuta attended Kuru Secondary School for his ordinary level. He has received quite a number of job experiences and he devoted his energy to doing casual jobs from time to time. He attended a Technical institute Namulanda to construct on his knowledge.

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Sekuya Phillip

Assistant Sanctuary Manager

Coming Soon

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Hanifa Chandiru

Administrative Assistant

When I volunteered here, I didn’t know exactly what I I would be assigned to do so I prepared myself for whatever would come my way.

Whether it was to cook, mop, seat at the front desk whatever it was, I was not going to object because I wanted to learn everything they did here.

So when I was asked to support in the merchandising area I took the opportunity on with a lot of enthusiasm not clearly knowing what it entails but I was willing to learn that is how I ended up at Game Supermarket marketing and selling chimpanzee products.

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The Caretakers: Guardians of the Chimps

Our caretakers are at the heart of Ngamba Island, working directly with the chimpanzees every day. They ensure that the animals receive the best possible care, from preparing nutritious meals to monitoring their health and social behaviors. These caregivers form strong bonds with the chimps, understanding their personalities, moods, and needs. It is their patience and expertise that create a safe and enriching environment, allowing the chimpanzees to thrive in a semi-natural habitat.

Veterinary Team: Keeping Our Chimps Healthy

The health of our chimpanzees is a top priority, and our veterinary team plays a crucial role in maintaining their well-being. With a keen eye for detail, they conduct routine check-ups, administer necessary vaccinations, and treat any illnesses or injuries. The team also works on preventive healthcare, ensuring that proper hygiene and dietary standards are maintained. Their dedication to research helps improve chimpanzee welfare not only at Ngamba Island but in sanctuaries and conservation programs worldwide.

Education and Community Outreach: Spreading Awareness

At Ngamba Island, conservation is not just about the chimps—it is about people, too. Our education and community outreach team works to raise awareness about chimpanzee protection, habitat conservation, and the importance of sustainable practices. Through interactive programs, school visits, and public campaigns, they inspire both local and international audiences to support conservation efforts. They also collaborate with surrounding communities to promote eco-friendly practices that benefit both humans and wildlife.

Ecotourism and Guest Services: Enhancing Visitor Experience

Ngamba Island offers an incredible opportunity for visitors to witness chimpanzees up close while learning about their conservation. Our ecotourism and guest services team ensures that every visitor has an unforgettable experience. They organize guided tours, coordinate overnight stays, and provide insightful information about the sanctuary’s work. Their enthusiasm and knowledge help create meaningful connections between visitors and the chimps, encouraging support for wildlife conservation.

Operations and Logistics: Keeping the Sanctuary Running

Behind every successful conservation project is a dedicated operations team that ensures everything runs smoothly. From maintaining the island’s infrastructure to managing supplies and transportation, this team handles the essential logistics that keep Ngamba Island functional. Their expertise in resource management, security, and technical support ensures that the sanctuary remains a safe and sustainable haven for the chimpanzees.

Management and Conservation Leadership

Our leadership team provides strategic direction for the sanctuary, overseeing conservation efforts, partnerships, and long-term sustainability. They work closely with local and international organizations to secure funding, develop policies, and advocate for stronger protection of chimpanzees in the wild. Their vision ensures that Ngamba Island continues to be a leading example of wildlife conservation and responsible ecotourism.

A Team United by Passion for Conservation

Every individual at Ngamba Island Sanctuary, from caretakers to veterinarians, educators to tour guides, shares a deep love for wildlife and a commitment to protecting chimpanzees. Their hard work and dedication make it possible for rescued chimpanzees to live in peace while educating and inspiring the world about the importance of conservation.

At Ngamba Island, we believe that saving one chimpanzee helps save an entire species. Thanks to our incredible staff, we continue to make a difference, ensuring a brighter future for these remarkable primates.