On a significant day, May 6, Angela received a call from Simon Gitau, the Senior Warden of Mount Kenya, alerting her to a distressing situation near Mount Kenya National Park.

Reports indicated an orphaned elephant calf abandoned by its herd, sparking immediate concern among the residents.

Despite heavy rainstorms in Nairobi, Angela and the rescue team mobilized swiftly, recognizing the situation’s urgency.

The decision was made to transport the stranded calf to safety overnight at the Kenya Wildlife Service Mount Kenya headquarters.

Under the guidance of Company Commander Nelson Leponyapui, the Kenya Wildlife Service, we ensured the calf’s comfort and security throughout the night.

At dawn, the DSWT rescue team, racing against time, set out to reach the distressed calf.

Arriving at the Nanyuki airstrip by 8:00 am, the team found the weakened calf anxiously waiting. Estimated to be around eight months old, she appeared frail and skeletal.

The team swiftly administered vital milk and intravenous fluids to bolster her strength for the journey ahead.

Throughout the flight, the calf, now named Tagwa, responded positively to the treatment, showing signs of renewed vigor upon arrival at the Nursery.

Covered in a protective blanket of dark fuzzy hair, she symbolized resilience and hope amidst adversity.

Tagwa’s name pays homage to the majestic Mount Kenya, her place of rescue, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as a sanctuary for diverse flora and fauna, including magnificent elephants.

Tagwa’s plight serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by wildlife in the region, including habitat encroachment and human-wildlife conflict.

Yet, her rescue also underscores the power of compassion and community support in safeguarding vulnerable species.

Amidst Mount Kenya’s lush landscapes, Tagwa’s journey symbolizes resilience and hope, illustrating the enduring bond between humans and wildlife.

Taking her first steps towards recovery, she embodies the spirit of survival, inspiring all who encounter her to embrace compassion and champion conservation efforts.

Tagwa’s rescue isn’t just a story of survival; it’s a testament to the unwavering dedication of those committed to protecting and preserving Kenya’s natural heritage.

Tagwa will continue to thrive in her newfound sanctuary—a living testament to the transformative power of compassion and collective action.