Every elephant needs a herd. As a species, their strong family bonds and delicate social dynamics are integral to their wellbeing and survival. Because of this, orphaned elephant calves have a slim chance of survival in the wild. HERD’s elephant orphanage in South Africa gives them a fighting chance by stepping in as their family and protectors when they need it most. You can help us give them a second chance at life…
Meet the Jabulani Herd
Every elephant needs a herd.
As a species, their strong family bonds and delicate social dynamics are integral to their wellbeing and survival. Because of this, orphaned elephant calves have a slim chance of survival in the wild. HERD’s South African elephant orphanage gives them a fighting chance by stepping in as their family and protectors when they need it most.
Until they’re ready to join their new herd, you help us give them a second chance at life…
Adine Roode
Help Save Our Vulnerable Gentle Giants
We rely on incredible people like you to keep us going. Every cent counts, and no contribution is too small. HERD’s running costs all come from public funding to take us from month to month, so we really appreciate your support.
Our Story
Rescue of Jabulani
A four-month-old calf, Jabulani, was found abandoned and stuck in a silt dam. His rescue would mark the beginning of a lifelong mission to provide safety, care and belonging to orphaned elephants.
Formation of the Jabulani Herd
A herd of orphaned elephants was rescued from Zimbabwe during the land reforms and relocated to South Africa. Tokwe, their matriarch, welcomed Jabulani into the herd, and a new blended family was born.
Opening of Jabulani Safari
To support the herd’s long-term care, Jabulani Safari opened as a purpose-driven, five-star safari experience, where every guest plays a role in supporting elephant conservation.
Birth of Limpopo
Tokwe gave birth to Limpopo on August 19, 2006, the first calf born into the Jabulani herd. Her arrival was a sign that the herd felt secure and settled in their new environment.
Birth of Zindoga and Klaserie
The growing herd welcomed two more calves: Klaserie (23 February, 2007) and Zindoga (25 October, 2007), further strengthening the family bonds.
Birth of Mambo and Pisa
Mambo (29 August, 2009) and Pisa (19 November, 20019) were born into the herd. They are the last two born into the herd before the adults were put on contraception as per South African Law.
Rescue of Kumbura
Kumbura was found wandering alone near a riverbank on a private Botswana game reserve, orphaned and vulnerable. She was taken in and slowly introduced to the Jabulani herd, becoming the first calf to be rehabilitated into the group after Jabulani, paving the way for future orphans.
Rescue of Timisa
Timisa was found wandering alone after her mother tragically succumbed to the hard effects of the 2016 drought. The team stepped in to care for her, and she was gradually accepted into the herd, growing in confidence and strength with their support.
HERD Orphanage Opens
HERD (Hoedspruit Elephant Rehabilitation and Development) officially opened, South Africa’s first dedicated elephant orphanage, built alongside the Jabulani homestead.
Arrival of Khanyisa
Khanyisa, a rare albino calf, was rescued after being caught in a wire snare. Severely injured but full of spirit, she found safety, healing and love at HERD with her elephant family and her sheep companions, Lammie and Nungu.
Launch of the JabuLadies Initiative
In response to the economic impact of COVID-19, HERD launched the JabuLadies initiative, empowering local women to earn income through beautiful hand-embroidered crafts inspired by the elephants.
HERD Trust Registered as a PBO
HERD was formally registered as a Public Benefit Organisation, reinforcing its commitment to ethical elephant care, conservation and community upliftment.
What We Have Done
0
Number of
elephants helped
0
Orphans integrated
into the herd
0
Jobs created through
the orphanage
How To Visit Herd
For overnight stays, Jabulani Safari is a Luxury Eco Lodge that provides guests with a purpose driven soulful safari experience. For day visitors, you can join the Elephant Moments team at sunrise to meet a few members of the Jabulani Herd.
