Amidst a harsh drought, Mweya, a resilient elephant known for her adventurous spirit, embarked on an extraordinary journey back to Voi.
Accompanied by her firstborn, Mwitu, and Eden (Edie’s daughter), she also brought her newborn son, Mojo.
Watch the video at the end.
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Mweya’s journey unfolds against a backdrop of remarkable resilience and leadership, tracing back to her rescue as an orphan in 2001.
After a crucial year in the Nursery, Mweya graduated from the Voi Reintegration Unit in Tsavo, honing essential skills for a wild existence.
Joining forces with Edie, she formed an ex-orphan herd and assumed the role of head nanny to Edie’s daughters, Ella and Eden.
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In a significant milestone in November 2019, Mweya became a mother, welcoming Mwitu.
Traditionally, Mweya and Edie return to Voi from their wanderings in Tsavo during the New Year, yet this time, they surprised keepers by arriving in October.
The unpredictable 22-month gestation period of elephants made Mweya’s early return all the more surprising.
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Her family’s unexpected visit included Mweya, Mwitu, Eden, and the newest member, Mojo, a tiny baby boy whose name mirrors the magical nature of his arrival.
Mweya’s decision to make the lengthy journey during a drought reflects strategic thinking.
Recognizing the challenge of providing enough sustenance for Mwitu and Mojo without supplementary food, she courageously led her family back to Voi, a place with abundant resources and support.
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Completing the challenging 100-kilometer journey in one go, without water stops, showcased Mweya’s decisive leadership and determination.
Her bold actions ensured the safe arrival of all four elephants, thriving despite the arduous trek.
Upon returning to Voi, Mweya focused on replenishing herself with food and water, allowing Mojo much-needed rest.
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Despite Mojo’s playful demeanor, Mwitu, as a young but attentive big sister, and Eden, embracing her role as head nanny, contribute to Mojo’s well-being.
While other ex-orphans, including Edie, haven’t appeared in Voi, the condition of Mweya’s family suggests they are adeptly navigating the drought in one of the remaining plentiful pockets in the ecosystem.
Mojo’s arrival marks the 52nd known calf born to an orphan rescued, raised, and reintegrated by the Orphans’ Project, symbolizing the project’s success in saving lives and fostering thriving wildlife in the wild.
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