What We're Doing
Dr. Dian Fossey established Karisoke™ Research Center in 1967, launching one of the longest ongoing research and monitoring programs for any species in the world. DFGFI’s staff of Rwandan and Congolese trackers, educators and scientists is on the ground every day in Rwanda and Congo protecting gorillas against threats from poaching, loss of habitat and disease.
Training young Rwandan scientists
- DFGFI’s Memoirs Program, in partnership with the Zoo (Case Western Reserve University) and the University of Rwanda, supports and conducts university student training at KarisokeTM Research Center to develop the next generation of scientists. Zoo staff has trained 28 Rwandan biology students in conservation science through this program since 2014.
Protecting Grauer’s gorillas in DRC
- DFGFI is protecting 150 gorillas in the Nkuba-Biruwe Conservation Area using monitoring and protection programs modeled after KarisokeTM Research Center’s proven programs. The Zoo is working with DFGFI and local communities to double the number of Grauer’s gorillas protected in this region by 2020.
Make a Difference
- You can make a difference for gorillas by recycling your cell phones and other small electronics through Eco-Cell, which reduces the demand for mineral mining in gorilla habitat and supports gorilla conservation efforts. Bring your retired devices to the Zoo and drop them in our Eco-Cell collection box!
- Learn more about how you can take action and make a difference for gorillas and other wildlife.
Partners
