Freetown, 21st September 2026- The Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary is mourning the sudden loss of Tom, one of its most cherished residents, whose story embodied both resilience and the sanctuary’s mission of compassion.
Tom, who passed away unexpectedly last week, had been at the heart of Tacugama for nearly 15 years. His enclosure, situated near the clinic and nursery, made him a familiar presence to caregivers and visitors alike. Staff recall how life with Tom was always “on Tom’s terms,” a testament to his strong personality after decades of hardship.
Before his rescue, Tom endured almost 30 years confined alone in a cage, leaving him unable to integrate with other chimpanzees despite repeated attempts. Sanctuary staff adapted to his needs, offering patient, individualized care that allowed him to live with dignity and choice.
Tom was set to be one of the faces of this year’s Giving Day for Apes campaign under the theme No One Is Left Behind. His story illustrated why sanctuary care must be tailored to each individual, sometimes requiring years of patience and specialized support.
“Tom’s journey reminds us that every chimpanzee deserves care, dignity, and the freedom to live life on their own terms,” the sanctuary said in a statement. “Though he is gone, his legacy continues through the 120 chimpanzees still in our care.”
Tacugama has launched a donation appeal in Tom’s memory to sustain its work and ensure that no chimpanzee is left behind. Contributions can be made via the sanctuary’s Giving Day for Apes campaign page.
Goodbye, dear Tom. After years of having no choice at all, you finally lived life on your own terms — and you were deeply loved.
