As a baby in the forests of Africa, a young chimpanzee named Citron faced heartbreak no animal should endure. Poachers killed his parents and captured him, intending to sell him into the illegal wildlife trade.
But unlike so many others, Citron was given a second chance. He was rescued by Papaye International, a Cameroon-based nonprofit that protects orphaned chimps by giving them safe island sanctuaries inside Douala Edéa Natural Park.
“Citron has the same sad childhood path as our other chimpanzees,” said Marylin Pons Riffet, president of Papaye International. “He arrived at the sanctuary injured, scared and sad.”
That sadness began to fade thanks to one man: Fabrice “Fiston” Moudoungue.
Fiston, the sanctuary’s longest-serving caregiver, helped nurse Citron back to health — not just physically, but emotionally. He gave the orphaned chimp what he needed most: love, patience, and trust.
“Citron adores him,” Riffet explained. “His friend who has cared for him, respected him, and allowed him to find a dignified life and a serene future.”
Today, Citron thrives among other chimps on a protected island, where he has freedom to roam and the chance to build a family of his own. But his bond with Fiston has never faded.
During routine visits to deliver food and check on the chimps, Fiston is often greeted with more than curiosity. For Citron, every meeting is a heartfelt reunion.
In one recent visit caught on video, the moment was undeniable — Citron rushed toward his old friend and wrapped him in the biggest, warmest hug.
“Citron’s smile is not a smile of submission,” Riffet said, “but a smile of real pleasure to be able to hug his human friend.”
For orphaned chimps, the absence of a parent often means a much lower chance of survival. In many ways, Fiston didn’t just change Citron’s life — he saved it.
And Citron seems to understand that.
“Chimpanzees share 98% of DNA with humans, and we can see in this video how similar the behavior is to ours,” Riffet said. “Intelligence, sensitivity and empathy are not the prerogative of humanity. A part of humanity — the one that poaches, traffics and kills — deprived them of their family and freedom. And another part — the one that loves, saves and protects — assures them of a chance to rebuild their lives within our sanctuary.”
Thanks to the work of Papaye International and their partners, Citron and dozens of other rescued chimps now live in safety, surrounded by care and compassion — and still held close in the arms of the humans who refused to give up on them.
Payape International wishes to acknowledge the following organizations for sponsoring their work: Fondation Brigitte Bardot, Fondation 30 Millions d'Amis, Fondation Le PAL Nature, Fondation Sharing My Planet, Fondation « Inspired By Kylian MBappé », Fondation et Entreprise ENGIE, Ambassade de France au Cameroun
