Taking the children to Ngamba Island chimpanzee sanctuary 2011
Today we took 21 excited children on a long boat to Ngamba Island. During the two hour journey we played eye spy and the children sang songs to us. On arrival the staff of the island supplied all of the children with cups of tea and we all sat and chatted freely for a while.
When all the teas were finished the staff chatted to the children about what they wanted to be when they grew up and the importance of school. The children expressed their wonderful ambitions, aims and dreams such as a pilot or a doctor. The staff also asked the children what activities they took part in the mornings and were answered with many answers such as greeting the elders and saying their prayers.
Still engaged by the staff, the children described the differences between primates and humans. Some of the children had read about primates on the boat on their way to the island so enjoyed answering questions when asked.
The importance of recycling and environmental conservation was talked about and the children enjoyed learning a new song. The song was appropriately about how cutting down trees would negatively affect their future and the future of the chimps.
After this interesting session the children had their lunch. When finished they had fun splashing 
around in the lake, and playing in the hammock. After this relaxation period the children went to where the chimps had their afternoon feed. During this period we learnt some individual chimpanzee stories about how they ended up at the sanctuary. Ngamba island is home to 44 rescued chimpanzees at present, and consists of 100 acres of land. 98% is forrested, leaving just 2% for the people who visit the island.The chimpanzees live in a very natural environment and are monitored daily.
It was an amazing day for all of us and a very educational, yet reflective day for the children who we are very lucky to be working with. These types of visits aim to be sustainable in the future through funding given by Yebo and programs set up by Yebo and the Ugandan staff at the sanctuaries and orphanage.
The members of the Yebo volunteer team that did not attend also had a very productive day, practicing and planning activities that can be used in future days with the children.We are excited about the next few weeks ahead.
By Heather, July 10, 2011 @ 6:28 pm
I am really enjoying reading about the work you are doing. I hope not only was it a reflective day for the children but also for the volunteers. I look forward to reading about future activities.
Heather
By Roger Mallins, July 14, 2011 @ 11:56 am
You all have obviously put a great deal of effort to empathize with these obviously very very happy children.Well done.They will often remember these special occasions in the future which has enhanced their overview of the immediate environment.
By Adrian, July 15, 2011 @ 10:57 am
Keep up the positive work you are all doing with such vibrancy.
An impressive sight of kids who know they are so lucky to have time away to remember!!
By Julie, July 17, 2011 @ 9:47 am
Funding is they key to the whole future of Yebo.I trust and hope that the work you have all done so far is rewarded long term! The long game here is the only way forward year after year.So good to see all this enthusiasm transalated into something wholly positive.Keep going.
By Oona Mitchell, July 17, 2011 @ 10:39 am
Following your work with keen interst and admiration for you all. Keep up the good work.So pleased that my daughter is involved as a volanteer this year.Look forward to reading the next installment.Proud of you all
By Rebecca, July 19, 2011 @ 8:37 am
‘Ambitions aims and dreams’ positive comments from a team working hard to achieve all of these.Great to read and enjoy your ongoing challenges.