Columbus Zoo Awards Three-Year Operations Grant to Lola ya Bonobo

As the world’s only bonobo sanctuary and rewilding program, Lola ya Bonobo has made a significant impact in the name of conservation. Located in the Democratic Republic of Congo, this organization rescues orphaned bonobos from illegal wildlife trade and habitat loss from deforestation, where they are nursed back to health and cared for as long as needed…sometimes for the rest of their lives. It’s just one part of their comprehensive approach to bonobo conservation, which also includes education and community awareness campaigns worldwide.

Two bonobos — Image courtesy of Lola ya Bonobo

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is one of only eight facilities in the United States to house bonobos. With an organization mission of leading and inspiring by connecting people and wildlife, the Zoo has been a longtime supporter of Lola ya Bonobo. By amplifying their message and supporting their cause, the Zoo’s goal is to further their hard work in educating the public about bonobos, the risks they face, and the global efforts to save them.

Since 2000, the Columbus Zoo has provided over $500,000 to support Lola ya Bonobo’s rescue and rehabilitation efforts and educational programs and will continue to in the future. In addition to that, the Zoo awarded the first “Commitment to Conservation Award” to Claudine Andre, founder of Lola ya Bonobos, to recognize the dedication to the cause.

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium recently awarded a 3-year grant to Lola ya Bonobo, allowing the organization to focus on preparing bonobos from the sanctuary for rewilding and eventual release at a 120,000-acre sister sanctuary called Ekolo ya Bonobo – a protected area in a rainforest habitat.

Men in canoe — Image courtesy of Lola ya Bonobo

“We have supported Lola Ya Bonobo for a long time, but this is the first time we are supporting it through a three-year grant instead of a new grant each year,” said Dr. Michael Kreger, Vice President of Conservation for the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. “This new model strengthens the bond between our two organizations and demonstrates our commitment to Lola ya Bonobo’s critical work on behalf of bonobos.”

Grant funds were supported by private donations, the Sulatalu Fund, the Zoo’s Wine for Wildlife fundraiser, and Zoo admissions and memberships. They will be used for veterinary medicine, food for bonobos, cleaning supplies, and staff costs. Animal Care and Animal Health teams from the Zoo will also provide Lola ya Bonobo with guidance and expertise on bonobo care and health.

Education and awareness are key to long-term success. This has been a hallmark of the programs in the Democratic Republic of Congo from the start where Lola ya Bonobo is raising awareness for bonobos and their plight globally. Working together, Lola ya Bonobo and the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium are empowering people and saving wildlife.