Uganda has once again strengthened its position as one of Africa’s leading wildlife conservation destinations. A landmark chimpanzee census has officially confirmed that 426 chimpanzees live inside Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
The first ever Bwindi Chimpanzee Census was conducted between May and June 2025 and it was led by the Jane Goodall Institute Uganda (JGI-Uganda) in partnership with the Uganda Wildlife Authority and the Greater Virunga Transboundary Collaboration (GVTC).
The results were officially launched by Martin Mugarra Bahinduka, Minister of State for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, alongside the Executive Director of Uganda Wildlife Authority, Dr. James Musinguzi.
The launch took place at the Uganda Wildlife Authority Headquarters in Kampala on Tuesday 24th February 2026.
This announcement is not just about numbers. It represents years of hard work, dedication, and cooperation between conservationists, researchers, government leaders, and local communities.
Why This Census Matters?
Bwindi is globally famous for hosting nearly half of the world’s remaining population of mountain gorillas. In fact, it is a recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its exceptional biodiversity and this new Chimpanzee Census expands the park’s global importance even further.
The inaugural census was conducted in two major sweeps within Bwindi Impenetrable Forest between May and September 2025 and it aimed at establishing the status of chimpanzees in Bwindi. It aimed at establishing the size, population density and distribution of chimpanzees within the impenetrable forest. Researchers carefully moved through different sections of the forest, documenting nests, feeding signs, vocalizations, and direct sightings.
The result ‘426 chimpanzees’ provides reliable scientific data about their presence, distribution, and population health.
For conservation managers, this information is powerful. It helps guide park protection strategies, patrol deployment, habitat monitoring, and community engagement programs.
Conservation Challenges
Despite positive census results, chimpanzees still face serious threats.
Habitat Loss. Forests around Uganda continue to face pressure from agriculture, settlement, and illegal logging.
Human-Wildlife Conflict. In areas close to park boundaries, chimpanzees sometimes move into farmland to feed on crops. This can create tension with communities.
Poaching. Although chimpanzees are protected, snares set for other animals can accidentally injure them. And besides Chimpanzees, Uganda is a home of mountain gorillas, come visit and wonder at the beauty of tourism in Uganda.
