Israeli Anthropologist Lives Under Al-Qaeda Threat to Study and Protect Mali’s Chimpanzees

Dr. Itai Roffman, an Israeli evolutionary anthropologist and protege of renowned primatologist Jane Goodall, conducted groundbreaking research on wild chimpanzees in Mali during a period of intense instability and terrorist threats from Al-Qaeda. Living among local tribes and adapting to harsh conditions, Roffman documented chimpanzee behaviors that blur the line between humans and other primates, supporting his argument that chimpanzees should be classified as a separate species within the Homo genus and granted legal rights akin to human rights.

Roffman’s journey began as a teenager when he became involved in environmental activism in Herzliya, Israel, and later connected with Goodall, who mentored him and facilitated his research visa to Mali. Despite the country’s descent into chaos following the fall of Gaddafi and the rise of jihadist groups, Roffman embedded himself with local communities, negotiated protection agreements to safeguard chimpanzees from hunters, and used innovative methods such as infrared cameras to study the elusive western chimpanzee population.

His research revealed complex chimpanzee behaviors including tool use, medicinal plant application, symbolic communication, and cultural traditions previously thought unique to early humans. Roffman also worked to rehabilitate captive chimpanzees in Mali and advocated for their legal recognition and protection. After returning to Israel in 2018, he continued his conservation and educational efforts as a senior lecturer at Emek Yizrael College and co-director of the Jane Goodall Institute Israel.

Currently, Roffman is pioneering research with criminologists to demonstrate that chimpanzees can provide legal testimony, which could revolutionize animal rights. His work honors Goodall’s legacy by combining scientific study, conservation, and peace-building initiatives among human and animal communities alike.