Ajabu, our youngest chimp here at the Sanctuary, celebrated her third birthday yesterday, on 30th March 2011. Ajabu is part of the second generation of chimpanzees to be born here at the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary. Her name means “surprise” in Kiswahili as no one knew her mother, Mwanzo, was pregnant. In fact Mwanzo was also born at the Sanctuary. She was the first baby to be born at Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary and was appropriately named Mwanzo, which means “the first” in Kiswahili.

We threw Ajabu a small party to celebrate and even decided to spoil her with candy! This was a special treat because the chimps do not get sweets as it could harm their teeth. We are not just spoiling her with sweets but she also received an extra portion of bananas. Her favourite! Her mother and grandmother (Sultana) were extra attentive towards her, almost like they knew it was her special day – talk about being intelligent! Ajabu is really loved.

Here is to many more birthdays for Ajabu! Post your birthday wishes here or on our Facebook Fan Page and we will send them her way.