DFGFI helps residents build water systems
for clinic and community use.

Surrounding Africa’s national parks, which provide sanctuary for endangered gorillas, are small communities of people whose poverty and poor health can also threaten the animals’ health and challenge the existence of rural populations. Unfortunately, it is often unsafe for ill villagers to travel to a medical clinic due to the presence of anti-government rebels using the parks as staging areas.

The DIAN FOSSEY GORILLA FUND INTERNATIONAL (DFGFI) works to protect more than gorillas. DFGFI’s Ecosystem Health Program is designed to promote a healthier environment for the communities. Their activities reduce the risk of crosstransmission of disease to the gorillas and other animals in the nearby parks and reserves while providing basic health care to the residents of protected areas. By collaborating with the Ministry of Health and pharmaceutical companies, DFGFI has about 50,000 contacts each year with children, women and men, providing them with medicine, vitamins, and protein drinks to combat malaria. In addition, the trained technicians diagnose and treat parasitic infections, educate, and help to improve infrastructure and water supply systems. Their presence also provides security for those affected by the militant forces’ occupancy.