In Defense of Animals-Africa

IDA-Africa's Sanaga-Yong Chimpanzee Rescue Center in Central Cameroon provides sanctuary to 73 chimpanzee orphans whose mothers were killed for the illegal bushmeat trade, ranging in age from less than 2 to over 40 years. IDA-Africa also wages an education/sensitization campaign to save chimpanzees and gorillas from extinction in Cameroon, producing and disributing posters and brochures, giving presentations in schools and adult communities, and broadcasting radio spots aimed at raising awareness of the illegal bushmeat trade and making it socially unacceptable to kill, eat, or hold captive chimpanzees or gorillas.

VOLUNTEER: The Sanaga-Yong Chimpanzee Rescue Center seeks volunteers for six-month stays. Under the direction of a Project Manager, volunteers are responsible for carrying out day-to-day operations of the sanctuary. Tasks include working with/overseeing Cameroonian staff (who speak French), buying food and supplies in town and nearby villages, helping with chimpanzee care and feeding, maintaining project equipment, assisting with construction projects, painting, and other manual tasks. Volunteers pitch in wherever most needed, though efforts are made to match individuals with their specific talents and skills. Please note that direct hands-on contact with chimpanzees is limited. Contact IDA-Africa for more information or an application.

IDA-Africa also seeks people with professional veterinary or medical training, mechanical, engineering, electrical and/or construction experience and skills. Some of our requirements for participation are more flexible for those with specialized skills.