Uganda was truly a full One Health experience, and I had the opportunity to see firsthand how the Jane Goodall Institute impacts both people and wildlife. The first three weeks were spent in the Kasongoire Forest region, where Victoria and I worked alongside Michael Jurua, the Conservation Science Manager at JGI. It was incredible to get an in-depth, behind-the-scenes look at how conservation research is conducted. I never expected to be learning how to code in Excel or design surveys in Uganda, but that was the beauty of the summer. Every day brought something new to learn and experience.
Our research focused on understanding human–wildlife interactions in the fragmented Kasongoire Forest and the potential for disease transmission as chimpanzees increasingly leave the forest to raid nearby villagers’ crops. This behavior is driven by habitat loss from ongoing deforestation caused by the surrounding Kinyara sugar plantation.
The study had four main components. First, we interviewed residents from seven nearby villages, a total of 73 households, to learn how often chimpanzees and other wildlife leave the forest, where they are seen, and how these encounters affect the villagers’ lives. Second, we collected geopoints of shared water sources used by people, livestock, and wildlife, as well as data from sites of human–wildlife conflict, evidence of deforestation, and snare setting within the forest. Third, we visited local hospitals and pharmacies to gather data on common diseases and assess potential zoonotic transmission, such as waterborne or fecal parasites from shared water sources. Lastly, we collected fecal samples from both chimpanzees and livestock to identify parasite genera and evaluate the risk of cross-species parasite transmission. This was my first experience in field research, and it is one I will cherish forever. The critical thinking, collaboration, and attention to detail are the skills that I’ll continue to cultivate as I further my career in veterinary medicine.
The next week was spent at Ngamba chimpanzee sanctuary on Lake Victoria. Our time was spent assisting with the annual health checkups for the chimpanzees, an experience that was both educational and unforgettable. Each day, we examined five chimps, collecting fecal, urine, blood, and nasal samples to test for parasites and other health indicators. After lunch, we processed and analyzed the samples, performing in-house fecal and urine testing, including pregnancy tests for the females. The team also administered ivermectin, multivitamins, and vaccinations, while dental care was provided for chimps with tartar buildup or infected teeth. Although all females receive Nexplanon implants for birth control, grooming behavior has caused some implants to be removed, resulting in a few births on the island, including one current pregnancy. The workflow was smooth and collaborative, and I was able to participate in nearly every procedure, from collecting samples to placing catheters and giving reversals, under the guidance of skilled veterinarians such as Dr. Titus and Santiago. This experience gave me hands-on exposure to wildlife medicine, strengthened my teamwork skills, and deepened my appreciation for the dedication required in veterinary conservation work.
Our last three weeks were spent in Kibale National Park working with wild chimpanzees. During this time, we visited primary schools, practiced darting, joined the snare removal team, tracked chimps in the forest, and even took part in an emergency snare removal that was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
At Kasenda, Mitulli, and Nyabweya Primary Schools, we joined Joshua, a conservation education instructor with the Kibale Forest Project and the Jane Goodall Institute. He led a session with the school’s wildlife club about the dangers of snares in the forest and how they harm chimpanzees. These snares, often made of nylon or wire, are set by community members to catch small game for food but frequently injure chimps and elephants. I was shocked to learn that 25–30% of chimps in Kibale have been injured or killed by snares. Seeing how engaged and passionate the students were was inspiring, especially knowing that they could share what they learned with their families and influence future conservation efforts within their communities.
Later in the week, we joined an emergency snare removal led by veterinarians Nathan and Patrick. The chimp had a wire snare embedded above its right elbow, cutting into the muscle. We quickly sedated the chimp, removed the snare, cleaned the wound, administered antibiotics, and took measurements and blood samples. Within minutes of reversal, the chimp was awake and moving again. The veterinarians explained that if the snare had remained for another month, the chimp might have lost its arm or even died. I felt incredibly fortunate to witness and assist in a procedure that directly saved a wild chimp’s life.
The following week, we spent the day tracking chimps in the forest with field assistants Basheel, Wilberforce, and James, who collect daily behavioral, health, and movement data on the Kinyawara community of about 60 chimpanzees. After a long hike, we reached the chimps as they emerged from their nests to feed on Pseudospondias nuts, a seasonal favorite. We observed individuals like Tangaweezi and Bono, who had lost a hand to a snare, as well as Liddy and her infant, Lily. Watching these interactions and learning about chimp behavior and community dynamics deepened my understanding of both the challenges and the resilience of these incredible animals.
Overall, the experiences, lessons, and friendships I gained in Uganda will stay with me for a lifetime. As an undergraduate applying to veterinary schools, I could not have asked for a better opportunity to immerse myself in the world of wildlife and One Health medicine. I am excited to apply the skills I learned and continue building upon them as I advance my education and career in veterinary medicine. One thing I know for certain is that I will return to Ngamba Chimpanzee Sanctuary as a veterinarian to take part in the health checks and reconnect with old friends.