The people of Chikumbi village came together to rescue a baby elephant named Ndewa, who was found in a state of severe malnutrition and on the verge of starvation.
The swift action of the community and their collaboration with wildlife rescue teams gave Ndewa a chance at survival. The baby elephant was discovered by the villagers along the Zambezi River, a key migration route for elephants moving between Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique. It is believed that Ndewa had become separated from her herd during a river crossing, leaving her weak and without access to her mother’s milk for an extended period.
After finding Ndewa, the villagers reached out to community outreach officer Chrispie for guidance. Following her advice, they safely immobilized the calf and provided basic care by digging a small hole to collect water, allowing the calf to drink and cool down.
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, a rescue team equipped with a trailer from the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) was dispatched to assist. Upon arrival, the team found Ndewa attempting to eat but in critical condition due to her severe weakness.
The team administered essential electrolytes to rehydrate and energize her before beginning the long journey to a care facility where she could receive specialized treatment. During the eight-hour trip, Ndewa rested, showing trust and comfort as she lay on a soft bed of dry grass, being fed by her caretakers. This moment of rest was crucial after the immense stress and trauma she had endured since being separated from her herd.
Upon arrival at the nursery, Ndewa initially hesitated to leave the safety of the trailer. However, with the patient encouragement of the rescue team and the comforting presence of other orphaned elephants, she was eventually persuaded to enter her new enclosure. On her first night, she slept frequently, showing signs of exhaustion and gradually adapting to her new environment.
Though still cautious around her caretakers and only drinking from a bucket, Ndewa displayed a strong appetite for natural foods and Masao fruit, indicating positive progress.
The name “Ndewa,” which means “loved” in the local Chinyanja language, reflects the affection and dedication shown throughout her recovery journey. To overcome the upcoming physical and emotional challenges, Ndewa will need continuous, dedicated care and a specialized diet suited to her fragile health.
The ongoing support from the larger community remains essential to ensure a successful recovery and eventual reintroduction of Ndewa into the wild. Contributions can make a significant difference in providing the necessary resources for her continued care and recovery. Those interested in supporting Ndewa on her path to health and freedom are encouraged to donate, helping ensure a brighter future for this resilient baby elephant.
