Our Mission

Rehabilitation, Research and Education

Saving injured and endangered wildlife is just the beginning…

About the Orphanage

Established in 1973 by ex-game ranger Vivian Wilson and his wife Paddy, Chipangali Wildlife Orphanage in Zimbabwe is a renowned sanctuary dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and, where possible, release of orphaned, abandoned, and injured wildlife. Distinct from a traditional zoo, Chipangali’s primary mission is to return animals to the wild, although it also provides a permanent home for those unable to survive on their own. Through educational programs, zoological studies, and captive breeding for endangered species, Chipangali has garnered international acclaim for its pioneering work in wildlife conservation, serving as both a model and inspiration for similar efforts globally. Today, the orphanage is home to over 200 animals, including lions, leopards, hyenas, baboons, and many more.

Wildlife Orphanage and Animal Rehabilitation Center

At the heart of Chipangali’s mission is the commitment to offering a nurturing and secure refuge for wild animals from across Zimbabwe that are injured, ill, orphaned, mistreated, seized, or forsaken. The orphanage serves as a sanctuary where these animals can heal and, when feasible, be reintroduced to the wild within Zimbabwe. Over the years, Chipangali has successfully returned hundreds of rehabilitated animals to the wild, carefully selecting protected areas for their release to minimize the chances of human-wildlife conflicts. This strategic approach ensures that these animals have the best possible chance of a safe and thriving existence in their natural environments.

Education

A pivotal aim of Chipangali is to ignite a passion for wildlife conservation within the hearts of Zimbabweans, particularly its younger generation. Through up-close encounters with several species that are rarely observed in their natural habitats, alongside engaging lectures, films, and slide presentations, the orphanage educates visiting groups about the critical importance of preserving wildlife. A cornerstone of this educational outreach is the Princess Diana Center, which embodies the spirit of making education accessible to everyone, at no cost. This center is a treasure trove of educational materials and interactive activities designed to deepen children’s understanding and appreciation of Zimbabwe’s rich natural legacy, introducing them to the diverse animals, plants, and ecosystems that are integral to the country’s heritage and landscapes, all in an immersive and captivating way.

Nature Conservation

The fourth core mission of Chipangali is to cultivate a deep sense of appreciation for wildlife for all people, regardless of their background, with a special emphasis on educating children; our future generations. The orphanage seeks to challenge the assumption that these animals and their habitats will remain indefinitely for our pleasure and underscores the critical need for proper conservation and resource management to guarantee the future of Zimbabwe’s wildlife. By raising public awareness about crucial conservation challenges and efforts, the orphanage plays a key role in Zimbabwe and the broader African conservation landscape. The path to lasting change lies in the collective awareness and engagement of the community with conservation initiatives, making public knowledge and cooperation foundational to preserving wildlife for decades to come.

Research

Chipangali continually engages with research endeavors, studying and documenting vital zoological data on its resident animals. This includes tracking their growth patterns, dietary habits, dental health, and reproductive cycles. Beyond the confines of captivity, the orphanage extends its research efforts into the wild, conducting insightful field surveys and investigations within the expansive realms of National Parks and protected areas. This dual approach not only enriches our understanding of wildlife in both controlled and natural environments but also underscores the orphanage’s commitment to contributing valuable scientific knowledge to the field of conservation.

Cooperation

Chipangali plays a pivotal role in wildlife conservation by forging strong partnerships with both local and governmental entities. It offers crucial support to a variety of organizations, including the SPCA, Zimbabwe National Parks Authority, educational institutions, universities, international volunteer organizations and private citizens, especially in situations involving problematic animals. Acting as a vital conduit among these groups, the orphanage ensures that Zimbabwe’s wildlife receives the highest standard of care and protection. This collaborative effort not only enhances the welfare of the animals but also strengthens the overall conservation network within the country.