By Jade
In recent weeks, extreme rainfall and flooding across Limpopo Province have resulted in severe destruction of roads, bridges, and drainage systems, as well as to sanitation and power infrastructure. Thankfully, the rain has temporarily ceased, but access to many areas, including the HERD orphanage, remains severely restricted, heightening risks to both human and animal safety. … Continued
By Jade
Hoedspruit, South Africa – 14 January 2026 HERD (Hoedspruit Elephant Rehabilitation and Development) is currently responding to extreme rainfall and flooding impacting Hoedspruit and surrounding conservation areas, with increasing concern around damage to the land, reserve infrastructure, and sensitive ecosystems. The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued an Orange Level 9 warning, classifying the … Continued
By Jade
At HERD, we are passionate about nurturing the next generation of conservation leaders. Each year, we have the privilege of welcoming students from institutions like the NewBridge Graduate Institute to gain hands-on experience in elephant care, wildlife conservation, and community engagement. These students bring energy, curiosity, and fresh perspectives, and in return, they leave having … Continued
By Jade
Today marks six years since Khanyisa was rescued from a poacher’s snare, beginning a journey that has inspired so many around the world. From her fragile early days as a rare albino calf to the joyful, curious juvenile she is today, Khanyisa has grown, healed and flourished with the love of her elephant herd, her … Continued
By Jade
It is with deep sadness that we share the tragic loss of one of our most cherished team members, Robert Mashile, who passed away on Christmas Day, 2025. Robert was on his way to work from his family home in Oak Valley when the truck he was travelling in was struck in a collision. Three … Continued
By Jade
The Morning at the Homestead Each night, the rescued herd rests safely at the HERD homestead, a space carefully designed to meet their social and physical needs. The homestead is divided into four large quadrants to prevent conflict, especially among older bulls, and to ensure every elephant sleeps comfortably. Groupings are determined by social bonds, … Continued
By Jade
Born on one of the hottest days of summer, Pisa entered the world with determination and strength, qualities that continue to define her sixteen years later. On 13 November 2009, while out in the bush, Tokwe, the matriarch of the Jabulani herd, went into labour with no warning. Within an hour, a small but mighty … Continued
By Jade
On the morning of 29 August, our beloved Lammie woke, but she was weak and did not want to move. Surrounded by those who loved her, we sat with her, ensuring she was never alone. At the gentle pace of her years, she took her last breath in peace. Lammie had lived a long, full … Continued
By Jade
As we near the end of 2025, our HERD Team would like to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to all our amazing donors, supporters, and followers this year. Your kindness, generosity, and support have made it possible to take care of the Jabulani Herd, protect their environment, and reach out to our … Continued
By Jade
The Xilaveko Day Care Centre, located in Timbavati Village near Acornhoek, was founded in 2014 by Obert Chauke, a highly respected butler at Jabulani Safari, together with his wife, Ivy Sibuyi. Obert has been part of the Jabulani family for 16 years and is known for his kind, dedicated nature and unwavering positivity, loved by … Continued
