MBOMBELA – The only hope for life for two rehabilitated chimpanzees at Chimp Eden lies in the possible donation of fencing material. The decision to euthanise these animals was made after an attack on a staff member on April 25. This decision, reached by an ethics committee consisting of members of the Jane Goodall Institute of South Africa (JGI), the NSPCA and the Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA), has been put on hold pending a viable solution by JGI to better secure these two primates. They animals have been kept in isolation in their respective night quarters since the incident.
Not even one per cent of the estimated amount required to construct a more secure camp for these chimps was raised since the public appeal for funds almost two weeks ago. But it is not giving up on them, said JGI. They have one week left before the deicsion will be revisted.
Ms Martina Nicholson, spokesman for the institute extended an urgent appeal to the public to contribute towards a fund that could potentially save chimps Nikki and Amadeus. Nicholson said the “untrue and dishonest” messages being circulated internationally are not assisting in their efforts.
A point of contention in the whole case revolves around what would happen to the funds raised for these two male chimps, in the event that they are euthanised. Although they can’t guarantee that the money will be enough to keep them alive, this should not keep people from donating if they wish to be part of this attempt to save the primates, Nicholson said. In the event that all efforts fail, refunds to individuals will be impossible, but all funds would still go toward the care for the animals at Chimp Eden.
Despite admitting that the outcome could be dire, Nicholson is adamant that they will “fight”for these two, just like they fought for Nikki’s life before. (Nikki and Amadeus attacked Mr Andrew Oberle in 2012 , leaving him with severe injuries).
After discussions with two sanctuaries in Africa failed, their only hope now rests on a donation of material to construct a more secure enclosure. JGI’s Margi Brocklehurst said on Thursday. She mentioned that they are in an extremely difficult position, in wanting to save two chimps, but trying not to risk the closure of the whole sanctuary, then, Brocklehurst stated, they would need to relocate 32 primates.
Nicholson said, “I also want to comment that the recent victim did not provoke the attack.” There has been speculation on social media about the circumstances surrounding the incident. The man, Mr Andrew Francis, was recently appointed by the sanctuary and holds two degrees, one in zoology, and worked under the expert guidance of Mr Philip Cronjé, a recognised expert on primates, Nicholson added.
Both animals are still at the sanctuary and unaware of their uncertain fate.
People who want to help these animals should rather donate and attempt to ensure their survival, was Nicholson’s final appeal.
Donations may be made through GivenGain at https://www.givengain.com/cause/4110/, reference: Save Our Chimps.
Enquiries: Martina Nicholson on 011-469-3016.
