Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary receives prestigious re-accreditation

 

Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary (SCS), has received a prestigious re-accreditation from the Pan African Sanctuary Alliance (PASA).

The chimpanzee sanctuary renowned for its dedication to rescuing and protecting chimpanzees.

It is located at the Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Kajiado County.

PASA, the leading agency for primate sanctuaries in Africa unites a network of 23 accredited facilities globally.

Through rigorous evaluations and adherence to stringent guidelines, PASA ensures that sanctuaries uphold exceptional animal care standards, contributing to the permanent protection of African primates.

Stephen Ngulu said the re-accreditation signifies a milestone in their ongoing commitment to primate welfare.

Ngulu is the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary (SCS) head and Ol Pejeta Conservancy wildlife veterinarian 

“The evaluation process, conducted by PASA's executive director and an independent sanctuary evaluator, involved comprehensive inspections, documentation review, and meticulous assessment of our chimpanzee care standards,” Ngulu said.

Ngulu noted that the re-accreditation ensures Sweetwaters adheres to ethical practices and maintains a safe, professional environment for both our chimpanzee residents and visitors.

“It signifies our dedication to conservation, education, and the ongoing support of primate welfare initiatives," he stated.

Visitors to the Sanctuary can expect a transformative educational experience, witnessing firsthand the rehabilitation and care provided to rescued chimpanzees, he added.

By supporting Sweetwaters, tourists contribute to global conservation efforts and engage in ethical animal tourism practices.

Regarding the future of the Sanctuary, Ngulu observed that the re-accreditation strengthens their reputation and paves the way for potential expansion initiatives.

“It underscores our commitment to providing the highest quality of care to chimpanzees and sets a precedent for future endeavors in primate protection," he said.

Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary is a leading primate rehabilitation and protection facility dedicated to the rescue and care of chimpanzees.

Operated by dedicated professionals and volunteers, Sweetwaters provides a safe haven for rescued chimpanzees while promoting conservation, education, and ethical animal tourism practices.

PASA is the largest association of wildlife centres and primate sanctuaries in Africa.

It works to protect Africa's primates through a network of accredited sanctuaries, conservation initiatives, and community outreach programs.

SCS is the only chimpanzee sanctuary in the country.

It was reopened in March 1, after a three-year closure following the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Chimpanzees share 98.6 per cent of their DNA with humans and are believed to be the closest cousins to humans.

BY THE STAR