A community united in support of the release of 13 elephant orphans
As 13 of Reteti’s elephant orphans are in the final stages of release and continuing their lives in the wilderness for good, we are in awe of their sense of awareness – and how they are perfectly aligned with nature’s divine wisdom and timing.
In a similar way, awareness has been a pivotal part of this journey for us as a community, and it’s been incredible to witness the support for this release project resounding throughout Namunyak Conservancy!
Namunyak Chairman, Lengashar, sharing more information about the release of the 13 elephant orphans with Samburu Morans (warriors).
After many months, and years, of careful planning and weathering curve balls – from determining each orphan’s preparedness, to building work being slowed down by unexpected storms! – we are now taking our cue from these courageous elephants as they start to opt to stay out later each day, engage more with wild elephants, and explore the land of their birth on their own terms.
It's a land they have shared for generations with the indigenous Samburu people, and as the ultimate custodians of this 850,000-acre wilderness and its wildlife, the community is intricately part of the orphans’ rewilding and release.
Wholehearted & united support
One of the most important building blocks of the project was an awareness drive to ensure that the community was fully informed. Setting out to provide everyone at village level with a clear picture of the plans to see the orphans being safely and successfully released, Peter Lenasalia – Reteti Elephant Sanctuary’s Manager, and Titus Letaapo – The Sarara Foundation’s Director of Community, visited each of Namunyak’s 12 manyattas to create a profound understanding of all the steps, and receive everyone’s approval to proceed.
Because of Namunyak’s sheer size, its remote setting, as well as its rough and mountainous terrain, the awareness drive was a considerable commitment – and yet, over the course of three months, Peter and Titus left no stone unturned to ensure that no one was left out.
Patiently talking through all the details and answering all questions that came up, they obtained prior informed consent from everyone in the community, and it’s hard to sum up the overwhelming support they’ve received!
Meetings were held across Namunyak in each manyatta until every Mzee (elder) and Moran (warrior) was informed.
The community’s confidence in the release is a testament to their dedication and passion for the conservation of these majestic animals – and their wholehearted support will help drive the success of the reintegration of these elephants into Namunyak’s landscapes, where they will encounter and engage with both people and other animals in the wild.
Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to everyone who has been part of this journey, and to each member of the community for their kindness, enthusiasm, and endless support!
Watch: A few outtakes from the community meetings.
