We also contribute to the local economy by purchasing as much fruit and vegetables as we can from local villagers in order to feed the chimps. Our aim is to involve as many people as possible. At the Tchimpounga sanctuary we are building a small clinic for the benefit of the nearby villagers. At some of our sanctuaries visitor fees are already helping to support the basic costs of maintaining the chimpanzees. But until trust funds are established, we cannot rest.
Political instability can stop the tourist flow overnight.