Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund

Leading efforts for the conservation of gorillas and their habitats in Africa

In September 1967, Dr. Dian Fossey established the Karisoke Research Center in Rwanda’s Virunga Mountains and set in motion one of the longest-running studies of any animal species anywhere in the world. Our 50 years of successful conservation work in saving gorillas is based on a holistic model with four key parts: direct, daily protection of gorillas; scientific research on gorillas and their ecosystems; educating the next generation of scientists and conservationists in Africa; and helping local people with basic needs, so that communities can thrive and work together with us.