February 2, 2021 – February 2, 2024, 3 years since the repatriation of the 20 Congolese monkeys confiscated in Zimbabwe.
These young primates of 5 different species (11 golden mangabeys, 4 putty-nosed monkeys, 2 agile mangabeys, 2 l’Hoest’s monkeys and 1 blue monkey) were seized from traffickers on their way to South Africa via Zambia.
In collaboration with the Congolese, Zimbabwean and Zambian authorities, as well as Hemmersbach Rhino Force, Franck Chantereau traveled to Chirundu, the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, to bring these animals back to their country of origin.
After more than 39 hours on the road, these young orphaned primates finally reached J.A.C.K., where suitable facilities had been urgently built to house them.
This was the first major repatriation of primates in Africa. J.A.C.K. went from being a sanctuary for chimpanzees to a rehabilitation center for primates in general.
Since its foundation in 2006, J.A.C.K. has constantly fought against the trafficking of protected animals, first in Lubumbashi and then over the last two years throughout the DRC, rescuing primates of various species, some of which are vulnerable and endemic to the DRC.
Today, these primates rescued in Zimbabwe all live in groups in spaces adapted to their needs.
Once again, we would like to thank all those who made this huge rescue possible, including the authorities in Zimbabwe, Zambia and DR Congo, as well as Hemmersbach Rhino Force, Tikki Hywood Foundation, Pan African Sanctuary Alliance, Olsen Animal Trust and all the partners, sponsors and donors who supported J.A.C.K.