Bwindi census confirms 426 chimpanzees

A first-ever census just confirmed 426 chimpanzees calling one of Africa's most famous gorilla parks home.

The census breakdown

• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park officially hosts 426 chimpanzees.
• The Jane Goodall Institute Uganda led the count between May and September 2025.
• Uganda Wildlife Authority and the Greater Virunga Transboundary Collaboration partnered on it.
• Results dropped on 24 February 2026 at UWA headquarters in Kampala.

Why Bwindi matters even more

• The park already shelters nearly half the world's remaining mountain gorillas.
• Its UNESCO World Heritage status just got extra weight behind it.
• Forest elephants, monkeys, and hundreds of bird species share that ecosystem.
• Confirmed chimp populations make Bwindi a dual-primate stronghold.

Threats still looming

• Agriculture, settlement, and illegal logging keep chewing away at surrounding forests.
• Chimps wander into farmland near park boundaries, sparking community tension.
• Snares meant for other animals accidentally injure chimpanzees.
• Conservation only works when local communities see tangible benefits.

Key figures behind the effort

• Minister Martin Mugarra Bahinduka officially launched the results.
• UWA Executive Director Dr. James Musinguzi pushed for evidence-based management.
• Rangers patrol the forest daily to curb illegal activity.
• The Jane Goodall Institute brings decades of global chimp-research expertise.

Tourism and community payoff

• Chimp trekking at Bwindi joins Kibale, Budongo, and Kyambura Gorge as top spots.
• Park entrance fees funnel revenue into schools, health centers, and local projects.
• Visitors get one hour observing chimps after a one-to-four-hour trek.
• Community buy-in stays critical for long-term protection efforts.