The Jane Goodall Institute South Africa

06/06/2026

🤔🐵 Something very unusual happened...

This week, Cozy did something that made the staff stop, look twice, and ask:

“Did Cozy really just do that?”
Now, before the rumours start flying... no, he didn’t escape, steal a vehicle, or apply for a job in the kitchen. 😆

But he did do something that is very out of the ordinary for him.

💬 So, we’re putting it to you:

What do you think Cozy did?
Was it: 🌳 Something in a tree? 🧩 Something clever? 🏃 Something active? 👥 Something social?

Drop your guesses in the comments and we’ll reveal the answer soon!





GuessTheChimP

28/05/2026

In memory of Dr. Jane Goodall 🕊️🌿

Her decades of pioneering research changed how we see chimpanzees and ourselves.

Today, Chimp Eden in South Africa carries her torch, giving 33 rescued chimps a safe haven from poaching, abuse, and exploitation. She blazed the trail. Now it’s our turn.

25/05/2026

EUGENE CUSSONS

Beloved Conservationist, Visionary Behind Chimp Eden.

The Jane Goodall Institute was deeply saddened by the passing of Eugene Cussons, whose life, though tragically cut short, leaves behind a lasting and meaningful legacy.

Eugene Cussons will be remembered as a man of quiet strength, warmth, and profound compassion. His character was defined not only by his achievements, but by his humility, kindness, and unwavering commitment to making a positive difference in the world.

He played a pivotal role in the establishment of Chimp Eden, a sanctuary managed and supported by the Jane Goodall Institute, which stands today as a lasting testament to his vision and dedication.

Driven by a deep love for nature, Eugene was instrumental in giving chimpanzees a second chance at life, providing them with safety, dignity, and the opportunity to live free from fear. His efforts in rescue and rehabilitation, often undertaken in challenging and dangerous conditions, reflected both his courage and his enduring passion for conservation.

Eugene’s path bore similarities to that of Dr Jane Goodall, and it was perhaps inevitable that their shared passion would bring them together. During his years dedicated to Chimp Eden, he worked tirelessly to rescue orphaned chimpanzees and relocate them to safety, where they could be rehabilitated and cared for.

Although he had not been active at Chimp Eden since 2013, his impact remains profound. His legacy endures in the sanctuary he helped build, in the countless lives he touched and saved, and in the inspiration, he continues to spark in all who follow his example.

The Jane Goodall Institute extends its deepest condolences to his wife, Natasha; his daughter, Hayley; his parents, Gene and Marina, and his siblings. We share in their grief and honour his memory, recognizing the profound impact he had on those around him. Our thoughts are with his family during this difficult time.

11/05/2026

🍦🐵 Enrichment, comfort… and a little treat.

Josephine enjoying a yogurt ice cream filled with sunflower seeds and nuts — made with care by our amazing volunteers.

With the return of our volunteers, there’s a little extra creativity, a little extra excitement… and a lot of happy chimps. 💚

From hammocks made from fire hoses to frozen treats on warm (or not-so-warm) days — enrichment comes in many forms.

And let’s be honest…
ice cream isn’t just for summer. 😉

08/05/2026

Tomorrow, the world celebrates a man who has spent nearly a century reminding us that this planet is worth protecting. 🌍🦧

From the deepest oceans to the forests we call home, Sir David Attenborough has inspired generations to slow down, look closer, and care a little more about the wild world around us.

At Chimp Eden, we see every day why his message matters. Every rescued life, every second chance, every forest protected. It all starts with people choosing compassion over convenience.

Happy 100th birthday to the legendary Sir David Attenborough.
Thank you for giving nature a voice, and for teaching the rest of us to listen. ❤️

04/05/2026

Listen to this episode on HOT 102.7 FM

With Hot Cares funding vital JoJo tanks, Chimp Eden’s caregivers can focus less on shortages and more on the daily care of 33 rescued chimpanzees.

21/04/2026

☕🐵 Happy National Tea Day!

Nothing brings everyone together quite like a warm cup of tea.

Today, our chimps enjoyed a special treat — tea prepared by our wonderful volunteers, with fresh lemon pieces and mint leaves. 🍋🌿

And of course, the volunteers got to enjoy their own tea alongside them… because moments like these are meant to be shared.

There’s something special about slowing down, taking a breath, and enjoying the simple things together.

Because nothing says family quite like a peaceful afternoon and a good cup of tea. 💚

13/04/2026

💚🐵 Thank you for going above and beyond.

To our last two volunteer groups — thank you.

You didn’t just show up to help… you showed up with kindness, generosity, and a willingness to make a real difference.

From equipment that supports the team’s daily work —
🛠️ shovel, crates, wheelbarrow, JoJo tank, pump, freezer, plates and utensils —

to thoughtful touches that lifted spirits —
☕ tea, magazines, grapes, shoes, coconuts, wellies —

every single contribution matters.

Because when the staff are supported, their work becomes easier, their days a little brighter… and in turn, the chimps feel that care too. 💚

You started as volunteers —
but you leave as part of the family.

We will miss you… but we know this is not goodbye. 🌿🐵

09/04/2026

🥾🐵 When one pair of boots causes absolute chaos…
A kind volunteer gifted Jessica a pair of gumboots — and she was loving it.
But of course… nothing stays yours for long in a chimp family.

👀 Mary and Lilly noticed.
⏱️ Lilly applied the 5-second rule.
🥾 One boot gone.

Jessica wanted it back.
Lilly said no.
And just like that… it turned into a full-on disagreement.
Meanwhile…
Mary, minding her business (not really), saw her chance —
grabbed the boots… and ran. 💨
Moral of the story:
If you drop it… it’s no longer yours.