A major wildlife census of mountain gorillas and chimpanzees has officially commenced in the Bwindi-Sarambwe ecosystem, the only region in the world where endangered mountain gorillas and chimpanzees co-exist alongside human communities.
The census is being led by the Jane Goodall Institute and the International Gorilla Conservation Program (IGCP), a coalition effort supported by Conservation International, Fauna & Flora, and the World-Wide Fund for Nature (WWF).
It aims to provide updated data on the population of these great apes, which is vital for conservation planning and environmental protection strategies.
WWF Uganda Country Director Ivan Tumuhimbise emphasized the importance of the initiative in boosting local scientific independence and conservation efforts.
“This census is about strengthening local scientific capacity, reducing dependence on foreign labs, and setting a precedent for self-sustaining conservation,” Tumuhimbise stated.
Six survey teams made up of staff from 11 institutions have already begun combing through the rugged forest landscape, searching for indicators such as gorilla nests and fecal samples.
In a significant step forward, this year’s census includes localised genetic analysis — a departure from past practice, where samples were sent abroad for testing.
“We have developed the necessary capacity in terms of human resources and equipment to work on samples here,” Tumuhimbise added. “The two laboratories we are going to use are both in Uganda and the DR Congo.”
Bruno Ssemaganda, WWF’s Chief Operations Officer, revealed that the initial phase of the exercise is budgeted at 3.5 billion Ugandan Shillings.
He stressed that beyond counting animals, the data will help conservationists understand how climate change is impacting primate populations and their forest habitat.
Mountain gorillas are traditionally counted every five years. The last complete census in 2018 recorded 459 individuals.
A planned 2023 census was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, making this year’s effort critical to assessing population trends and threats.
In addition to mountain gorillas, the census will offer a full account of chimpanzee populations — another endangered species in the region.
Researchers hope the results will guide future conservation policies and ensure the long-term survival of these iconic great apes.
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