Meet Tsi Kosse. He lives in a small, isolated village called Lompole deep in the Congolese rainforest. I first met him through our mutual work on the LuiKotale Bonobo Project (LKBP) for which he dedicates as much time as possible to helping international researchers study and protect several communities of endangered bonobos. For many people who have worked with him on this project, Tsi Kosse is more than just a colleague; he is a trusted teacher and friend.

Indeed, Tsi Kosse is one of those people who makes you instantly feel welcome with his warm smile and genuine kindness. He is smart and curious, and loves to sing and dance. He is also a loving husband to his wife, Niclette, and the proud father of six children ranging in age from 22 years to just a couple of years old.


Tsi Kosse's father, Papa Endu, was a well-respected ‘notable’ in the village, and he instilled in Tsi Kosse a strong sense of family and community. Since Papa Endu’s passing, Tsi Kosse has become the head of his family and has worked hard to support his brothers, wife and children, as well as the people of his village. From hunting, fishing and farming to provide food for his family and neighbors to building and then teaching in his village school, Tsi Kosse is quick to offer a helping hand.

But now Tsi Kosse needs a helping hand. He is currently very sick and both the traditional and Western-trained doctors in his village are unable to help him. He needs to be evacuated to the capital, Kinshasa, in order to receive proper diagnosis and treatment.

Due to his illness, Tsi Kosse has incurred a substantial debt to pay his medical bills (almost $275 CAD or $200 USD), and he requires significant financial aid to visit a hospital in Kinshasa (at least $1760 CAD or $1300 USD for travel, living and medical costs). In the meantime, his family needs financial support because Tsi Kosse – who is the primary income earner in the family – is too sick to work. Thus, the goal of this GoFundMe campaign is to raise a minimum of $3000 CAD (~ $2200 USD) by August 10th, 2020 to help Tsi Kosse and his family. 

If we can raise more, this money will be put into a contingency fund to cover any unexpected travel and medical costs. To that end, the ultimate goal of this fundraiser has been revised to $5500 CAD thanks to the amazing show of support.

I know it can be hard to feel connected to someone who lives in such a foreign place, half a world away. But think of a beloved brother, father, mentor or friend and you will know Tsi Kosse. By donating to this campaign, you will not only being helping Tsi Kosse, you will be helping a village of people for whom he is that beloved figure.

Melesi (thank-you).