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Healthier communities
Everyday health is part of conservation. Better hygiene, safe water and local health education help reduce risks for people and wildlife.
Explore this workPeople. Gorillas. One shared future.
A future where
gorillas and
communities thrive.
At the forest’s edge, our futures are connected. We bring communities into the heart of mountain gorilla conservation in southern Bwindi.
Locally rooted. Community-led. Built for coexistence.
Bwindi Impenetrable ForestUganda · Our shared landscape
Registered community-based organization Rooted in Kisoro District Conservation through community wellbeing
Why this matters
A species on the edge.
A community at its side.
1,063mountain gorillas remain in the wild
~459live in the Bwindi-Sarambwe forest
Mountain gorillas exist in only two isolated forests on Earth. Bwindi-Sarambwe, in southwestern Uganda, holds nearly half of the entire wild population.
Gorillas share almost 98% of our DNA, which makes them vulnerable to human illnesses. Respiratory disease is a leading cause of death among them, and contact with people increases the risk.
BGFI’s response starts at the forest edge: healthier communities, safer water and sanitation, better waste management and education. The risks to people and gorillas are connected — and they can be reduced together.
Population estimate: 2018–2019 census. Health information: Gorilla Doctors.
The place we call home
The forest’s future
begins at its edges.
For the communities living beside Bwindi, conservation is part of everyday life. The health of families, the way waste is managed and the opportunities open to children all shape our relationship with the forest.
BGFI brings these connections together. We believe lasting protection for mountain gorillas grows from healthier, more resilient communities who have a stake in conservation.
Discover our approachOur approach
Four connected paths.
One healthier landscape.
Practical, community-led solutions for people and wildlife to coexist.
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Cleaner environments
Practical, locally managed systems keep waste away from homes, gardens and the forest boundary.
Explore this work03
Opportunity through education
Support children from households affected by human–wildlife conflict, and help the next generation take part in conservation.
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Learning together
Connect community knowledge with health and conservation expertise, so concerns can be reported and progress understood.
Explore this workOur flagship proposal
Shielding
the Great Apes.
A proposed 24-month programme connecting community health, waste management and inclusive education in the villages bordering southern Bwindi.
What we’re working towards
Local action.
Lasting possibility.
18frontline villages
~3,600community members
150children supported
Proposed 24-month targets — not results achieved.
US$210,660Proposed investment
Trust grows through openness
A clear purpose.
An accountable approach.
Get to know the organization behind the proposal, what we plan to deliver and how we intend to report on progress.
A shared responsibility
The future of Bwindi
is something we build together.
Bring your knowledge, partnership or support to community-led conservation.
Partner with us