We are a Rescue Organisation Dedicated to Saving South Africa’s Primates
Charne van der Mescht, Co-Founder: 072 960 5507
In South Africa, we are blessed to be living amongst some of the most majestic animals on earth, including a variety of primates. Monkey Matters Eastern Cape rescues injured, orphaned and displaced vervets & baboons. We educate schools, businesses, farms and homes regarding conflict between humans and primate unwanted behaviour.
Monkey Matters understands the need for primate rehabilitation and release centres throughout Africa. We also feel that more emphasis is needed on the prevention of damaging incidences with primates.
We accomplish this through education.
Our Mission
Monkey Matters assists during call-outs with local law enforcement. We rescue orphaned baby primates. We also rescue ex-pets for rehabilitation and release.
We rescue South African primates in need of help.
READ | LEARN | ACT
Knowledge is power! Please read and share any of our articles published on this page. Our primate experts have decades of experience and knowledge regarding best-case and real-life scenarios. They keep up to date on education and research. Monkey Matters strives to be transparent in all rescue operations and educational materials. We don’t seek credit–we desire peace amongst all primates.
Please Note: To ensure successful rehabilitation, orphaned primates need to be placed in our care as soon as possible.
Our Team
Charne van der Mescht
Charne is a co-founder of Monkey Matters and has been involved with primate rescue for over 25 years. Her passion to rescue, rehabilitate and provide freedom for all South African primates is evident through her years of dedication to the cause.
Joeleen Beyers
Jo played a vital role within the development of the organisation, not only as a co-founder, but as a degree specialist in the field of Biological Anthropology from the University of Illinois (Chicago). Along with her many years of experience in primate rescue, she has worked in various environments and with a variety of primates ranging from prosimians to great apes. While she has relocated back home to Chicago, she continues to give guidance to the Monkey Matters Mamas as this organisation will always be near and dear to her heart.