Residents of Chikumbi village have come together to save a young elephant calf named Ndewa, who was found severely malnourished and on the verge of starvation.
The community’s quick actions and collaboration with wildlife rescue teams have given Ndewa a fighting chance at survival.
Ndewa was discovered in a weakened state by villagers along the Zambezi River, a region that serves as a significant migratory path for elephants traveling between Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique.
It is believed that she became separated from her herd during one of these river crossings, leaving her vulnerable and without access to her mother’s milk for an extended period.
Upon finding Ndewa, the villagers contacted community outreach worker Chrispie for guidance.
Following her recommendations, they safely secured the calf and provided basic care by digging a small pit for water, allowing her to drink and cool down.
Recognizing the situation’s urgency, a rescue team equipped with an International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) transport trailer was dispatched to assist.
When the rescue team arrived, they found Ndewa attempting to feed but clearly in critical condition due to extreme emaciation.
The team administered essential electrolytes to rehydrate and energize her before embarking on the lengthy trip to the nursery facility where she could receive specialized care.
During the eight-hour journey, Ndewa rested briefly, showing signs of trust and comfort as she lay on a bed of soft hay and accepted nourishment from her caretakers.
This moment of respite was crucial after the immense stress and trauma she had endured since her separation from the herd.
Upon arrival at the nursery, Ndewa initially appeared hesitant to leave the trailer’s safety. Patient encouragement from the rescue team and the reassuring presence of other orphaned elephants eventually coaxed her into her new enclosure.
Throughout her first night, she slept frequently, demonstrating exhaustion and a gradual adaptation to her new environment.
While she accepts fluids only from a bucket and remains cautious around her caregivers, she shows a healthy appetite for natural browse and Masao fruits, indicating positive progress.
The name “Ndewa,” meaning “beloved” in the local Chinyanja language, reflects the affection and dedication surrounding her recovery journey.
Overcoming the physical and emotional challenges ahead will require continuous, attentive care and specialized nutrition tailored to her fragile condition.
Support from the broader community remains essential to ensure Ndewa’s successful rehabilitation and eventual reintegration into the wild.
Contributions can make a significant difference in providing the resources needed for her ongoing care and recovery.
Those interested in assisting Ndewa on her path to health and freedom are encouraged to donate, helping to secure a brighter future for this resilient young elephant
