In the heart of the Voi herd is a remarkable elephant named Ashanti, whose story embodies resilience and strength despite the odds stacked against her.
Born amidst the harsh realities of poaching and drought, Ashanti’s journey is survival and redemption.
In October 2022, fate intervened as the SWT/KWS Burra Anti-Poaching Team stumbled upon Ashanti, a distressed young calf trapped in mud, bearing the scars of a poacher’s trap. With no family in sight, swift action was needed to save her.
Rescued and brought to safety, Ashanti found herself under the care of the Voi Reintegration Unit, embarking on a path towards recovery.
Despite her tender age of two, Ashanti faced immense challenges. Her trunk, injured by a poacher’s trap, left her unable to grasp food, a critical skill for survival.
Yet, with dedicated support, Ashanti gradually adapted to her new environment and found solace among fellow orphaned elephants.
Bonding with companions like Kilulu and Kenderi and nurtured by maternal figures like Mbegu, Ashanti’s spirit shone through.
Despite her vulnerabilities, she displayed remarkable resilience, eagerly embracing new experiences like foraging with her herd and defying expectations with her boldness.
As Ashanti grows, she’s being prepared for life in the wild, where her unique abilities will enable her to thrive.
Despite her challenges, Ashanti’s story is a testament to the adaptability and resilience of animals, inspiring hope for her eventual independence.
Though the road ahead may be challenging, Ashanti’s unwavering spirit assures us she will persevere.
In embracing safety and care, Ashanti’s journey continues as a beacon of hope in adversity.
