Meet Ndewa: Our Inspiring New Elephant Ambassador

Ndewa, meaning “beloved” in Chinyanja, is our new elephant ambassador at David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation (DSWF). Rescued from Chikumbi village along the Zambezi River, her story is one of resilience, recovery, and the strength of community. At just under three years old, Ndewa has overcome challenges no young elephant should face. Separated from her family, likely during a river crossing, she was found alone and emaciated by community members. They reached out to our field partners at Game Rangers International (GRI).

Ndewa arrived at the nursery in fragile health, weakened by a prolonged lack of mother’s milk and natural food sources. For the team, her condition required cautious care. Her diet started with electrolytes, carefully introduced Masao fruits, and Mbula berries, which helped her regain strength. Over the next few months, she received round-the-clock support from our team, who also built a stable extension so she could enjoy sunlight and mud baths, vital for her physical and emotional recovery.

With the patience and nurturing of her keepers, Ndewa began to thrive. By late 2023, she had developed close bonds with her herd mates, especially with Daliso, with whom she spent the most time. Despite her newfound confidence, Ndewa often preferred solitude, lingering in the paddock to take in her surroundings at her own pace. This mix of independence and connection continues to define her character as she grows stronger each day.

The end of summer during 2024 has brought more challenges, however. Due to an ongoing drought, food resources have diminished, and Ndewa has lost some weight. Yet she remains resilient, adapting to these conditions with determination. Now the oldest member of her herd, she often takes on a protective role, standing her ground against larger animals like giraffes and rhinos that pass through. She is playful yet firm, particularly looking out for her younger companions, Kasungu and Chikumbi, as they adjust to the harsh environment together.

As we celebrate Ndewa’s inspiring journey, we also bid farewell to her predecessor, Chamma, who has successfully reintegrated into the wild and become a mother to a beautiful calf named David. Chamma’s story reminds us of what dedicated care and conservation efforts can achieve, and we’re hopeful for a similar future for Ndewa.

Help Protect Ndewa and Her Herd

You can help us continue providing the vital support that young calves like Ndewa need to survive and thrive. By adopting an elephant, you contribute directly to their care – providing them with food, medical attention, and a nurturing environment. Each adoption helps ensure that one day, Ndewa, too, may return to the wild where she belongs.

You can support our work to save endangered animals from extinction by adopting today.

Adopt an Elephant