Protecting Elephants

As the dry season settles over the plains of Zambia, we’re excited to share some updates from the field, stories of courage, recovery, and the bonds that tie orphaned elephants together on their journey back to the wild.

Thanks to your support, every day brings new signs of hope, from the remarkable rescue of a tiny orphan called Nanzhila to the continued progress of our beloved ambassador elephant, Ndewa. These stories remind us why your adoption means so much

At just 10 months old, little Nanzhila was found completely alone, a tiny figure wandering across the vast open plains that bear her name. No mother. No herd. Just a vulnerable calf, orphaned far too young.

She was first spotted on a Sunday, triggering a swift and coordinated rescue effort. By the Monday, a ground team was deployed, supported by aerial drone surveillance scanning the Nanzhila plains for any sign of her. There was a second sighting on Wednesday, prompting African Parks to send a fixed-wing aircraft with a spotter onboard, but again, she vanished. Then, on Friday, something extraordinary happened. Exhausted, dehydrated, and clearly in search of help, Nanzhila walked right up to the Nanzhila lodge. She stayed nearby until a vet was flown in by helicopter to treat her.

At the Kafue Release Facility, keepers stayed by her side 24/7, gently administering electrolytes, comfort, and reassurance. It was a delicate time, and after spending numerous days alone in the wild, every moment mattered. After 11 days of round-the-clock care, Nanzhila was stable enough to travel, she was flown to Lusaka, where she is now settling into the Elephant Nursery under expert care. Though she remains in fragile condition, Nanzhila is showing small but vital signs of recovery, her long road to rehabilitation has just begun, and with your help, we’ll walk beside her every step of the way.

Meanwhile, one of our most well-known elephants - Ndewa - is entering an exciting new chapter.

Now three years and three months old, Ndewa was recently moved to the Kafue Release Facility alongside her close companion, Chikumbi. After spending her formative years at the Lusaka Nursery, this move marks the next stage in her 15-year journey back to the wild, and she’s thriving.

This quarter, Ndewa’s physical transformation has been extraordinary. Her improved body condition and weight gain are signs of excellent health, helped by access to fresh grazing, natural browse, and a supportive herd structure. Her strong appetite and confidence show just how well she’s adjusting to life in the bush.

But it’s her personality that continues to shine. She’s become known for chasing around young Bupe in cheeky displays of dominance, yet her softer side is always close to the surface. Her bond with Kasungu is especially touching, she often positions herself protectively beside him, offering reassurance and companionship. This balance of playful boldness and nurturing care is what makes Ndewa so special.

Her growing connections within the herd reflect a deepening emotional intelligence, and reinforce just how vital these social bonds are for orphaned elephants learning how to be wild again.

Whether it’s a newborn calf taking her first steps toward safety or a maturing elephant like Ndewa beginning her rewilding journey, every milestone is only possible because of people like you.

With your help, we’re not only giving orphaned elephants a second chance, we’re giving them back the life they were meant to have: wild, free, and filled with family.

Thank you for walking this path with us.

Best wishes,

Eleanor