The more we learn about chimpanzees, the more we realize how similar they are to humans. We share 98% of our DNA with chimpanzees, and if you need proof, this video might convince you. It shows a chimpanzee named Citron meeting his old friend, his rescuer, Fabrice “Fiston” Mudungé.
When Citron was a cub, his parents were tragically killed by poachers and he was kidnapped to be sold on the black market for wild animals. Fortunately, he was rescued by Papaye International, a Cameroonian organization that protects orphaned chimpanzees. Since their rescue, the animals have been living safely on island sanctuaries in the Douala-Edea Natural Park.
Citron arrived at the sanctuary scared and injured, but Phiston nursed him back to health. Today, the adult chimpanzee lives with other chimpanzees on a protected island sanctuary, where they can roam freely and raise their own families.
Marilyn Pons Riffet, president of Papaye International, said that Phiston is the oldest keeper and knows all the chimpanzees in the organization's care. “Citron adores him,” she said. “His friend who took care of him loved him, respected him and allowed him to find a dignified life and a peaceful future.”
The mutual love and respect between Citron and Phiston is evident in the video that captured their touching encounter. Phiston, who occasionally visits the chimpanzee habitat to bring them food, crossed the river to see Citron. At first, Citron didn’t show much interest in the bananas Phiston brought, he was more interested in the hug. The two hugged, and that said it all. After finally accepting the food, Citron quickly shook Phiston’s hand before returning to his pack.
“Every day we work to ensure they have a future of dignity, freedom and respect,” Papaye International wrote in the video caption. “A future where little chimpanzees are no longer deprived of their childhood. A future where we never forget that recognizing the humanity in others is also the beginning of our own humanity.”
